Brief remarks by His Majesty King Willem-Alexander at a lunch hosted by the Governor of Västra Götaland County, Sten Tolgfors, in Gothenburg
Mr Governor, ladies and gentlemen,
Thank you for the warm welcome that my wife and I have received here. It’s wonderful to be in Gothenburg, a city that arose four centuries ago out of a unique Swedish-Dutch partnership. To this day, its streets, canals and houses have a truly Dutch atmosphere.
This city is living proof that something wonderful can happen when two countries join forces. Not only combining their expertise and know-how, but also their administrative skill, their economic potential, and above all their dreams and ambitions for the future.
Gothenburg’s history is a source of inspiration for us all. We believe that, in our era too, Sweden and the Netherlands are capable of doing great things together.
Our focus in this regard is on renewable energy and the transition to a climate-neutral economy.
Four hundred years ago the question was how to turn a marshland into a flourishing city. Now, the question is how to give our flourishing cities a bright, sustainable future.
We are joined on this visit by a group of professionals from companies and knowledge institutions, who are keen to explore more opportunities for collaboration with you.
I hope that many more inspiring connections will develop between our two countries. Thank you again for your hospitality. We are looking forward to the rest of our day in Gothenburg.