Royal Watch News

King Carl's speedy reign

Feb 18, 2013, 12:02 GMT

King Carl Gustaf with Queen Silvia and Princess Madeleine

Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf says his 40 years on the throne have 'gone incredibly quickly'.

The monarch is celebrating his jubilee year in 2013, and while he is surprised at how time has flown by since he became king, he is glad to have the perspective of his age.

In an interview posted on the official website of the Swedish Royal Court, he said: 'The years have gone incredibly quickly.

'Forty years is a very long time, and so much has happened. I was a relatively young man of 27 when I ascended to the throne, and I saw the world through the eyes of a 27-year-old.

'Now, 40 years later, I have a certain amount of experience to draw on. And the world around us has changed on many levels and in many different ways; even in terms of the proximity of the immediate family circle, in Sweden and in the world.

'It is sometimes said in jest that everything was so much better before, but that simply isn't true. In many ways, the world has become a better place in which to live for most people, but there is still a great deal of poverty and need in the world.'

Jubilee celebrations have been months in planning, and as while the king is looking forward to celebrating the last 40 years, he is also looking forward to help make the world a better place or future generations.

He added: 'There are many challenges. I look forward with great optimism, but also with a certain degree of concern. Technological developments will provide immense opportunities for mankind in the future, which is incredibly exciting and gives me hope.

'My concerns revolve around environmental issues and the considerable challenge of leaving our vulnerable planet in a good condition for future generations. But if we take advantage of our opportunities, all the positive and hopeful things I see during my travels - both here in Sweden and abroad - then I am convinced that, together, we have a promising future ahead of us.'