Ministers, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, friends of France and Denmark, bonsoir.

The Queen and I have had the pleasure of visiting France several times together and always feel very much at home here. And we are not alone.

Countless Danes visit France every year, and many have made your beautiful country their new home. Tonight, we celebrate the strong bonds between our two countries.

For me, France holds a special place in my heart.

Growing up with a Danish mother and a French father gave me the privilege of embracing the best of both cultures.

From my mother, I learned the value of pragmatism, from my father the power of passion. From my mother, I was taught to look beyond my impulses, from my father to trust my instincts. From both – to always seek a wider perspective.

Danes and the French complement each other and share the same fundamental values. We cherish freedom and democracy. We strive towards the same goals, even if some of us insist on forging our own paths.

The French take pride in choosing the alternative route instead of the crowded one. I must admit, I can relate to that. Some may call it stubbornness, but in truth, it is a rebellion against conformity – a tribute to imagination.

We find ourselves in a time of uncertainty. The future has become harder to predict, and we are paving the road as we go. Navigating unfamiliar terrain makes strong and reliable partnerships even more valuable.

On this state visit to France, we are accompanied by a delegation of leading Danish companies.

Today, alongside French businesses and partners, you have explored new opportunities in defence, health, and energy – laying the groundwork for a more resilient Europe.

Tomorrow, we will conclude our visit at the restored Notre-Dame. To me – and many of you, I am sure – the Cathedral is a striking example of resilience.

Thanks to the bravery of French firefighters and the expertise of craftsmen from across Europe – including Denmark – the glorious building has risen again. A powerful symbol for Parisians, for France, and indeed for all of Europe.

In uncertain times, the reconstruction of Notre-Dame is a profound reminder of our ability to come together, to honour our shared cultural heritage and, when necessary, to rebuild what we hold dear.

Together, we stand strong.

En tournant notre regard vers l’avenir, je suis convaincu que nos deux nations continueront à se soutenir mutuellement face aux défis qui nous attendent.

Je vous remercie chaleureusement pour votre accueil.

I propose a toast to the lasting friendship between our nations and to the continued prosperity of France and Denmark.

Santé!

(Det talte ord gælder)