Mr. President, Mrs. Innes-Stubb, Mr. Speaker of the Parliament of Finland, Mr. Speaker of the Parliament of Åland, Mr. Vice President of the Sámi Parliament, Ministers, Mayors, Excellencies, dear Finnish friends,

On behalf of Queen Mary and myself I want to once again express our heartfelt gratitude for your generosity and hospitality during our State Visit to Finland. These past few days have given us unforgettable memories – and slightly sore thighs from cross-country skiing in Saariselkä. But more importantly, they have left us with a renewed belief in the future we can create together.

Last night, I spoke about the importance of shedding light on solutions that lead us in the right direction. Tonight, we find ourselves in the beautiful Finlandia Hall – a masterpiece by the famous Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. Outside, the façade is beautifully illuminated by Danish light art.

What a fitting and symbolic way to conclude our visit – one country highlighting the extraordinary work of another. Finland and Denmark truly complement each other, and we have much to offer one another in our shared pursuit of the right path forward.

Before I conclude, I have a small confession to make. I am known for repeating my jokes. And a signature joke of mine is relevant here. When a waiter in a restaurant asks me, “Are you finish’?” – nine times out of ten, I reply, “No, I am Danish” much to my wife’s dismay.

From now on, however, another answer will come to mind. The question “Are you finish’?” is now likely to be followed by, “No, but some of my close friends are.”

And on that personal note, I wish you all a pleasant evening.

To the continued friendship between Finland and Denmark.

Skål/kippis!

(Det talte ord gælder)