King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden: Climbing the Great Wall again

Places of historical interest are the evidence of history. The ancient capital of Beijing is a blend of the historic characters, the circumstances of time, and the legendary experience, showing the world the peace, tolerance and inclusiveness of Chinese culture.

Numerous of guests, including King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden were attracted by these enchanting elements of China.

On September 14, 1981, The king and Queen Silvia paid a state visit to China, which marked the first visit to China by Swedish head of state since the two countries established diplomatic relations.

On September 17, The King and the Queen climbed the Badaling Great Wall in Beijing, China.

In early autumn, the Great Wall was covered by verdant trees, and the royal couple couldn’t help but marvel at and praise this strikingly beautiful scene.

“Distance cannot separate bosom friends.”The King said: The friendly relations between Sweden and China boast a long history, and the Swedish royal family take a strong interest in Chinese history and culture.

In 1753, the King of Sweden built a “Chinese Pavilion” in the Drottningholm Palace to celebrate the Queen’s birthday, which has been preserved to this day.

In 2008, King Karl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia visited China again and participated in the Beijing Olympic Games. They climbed the Badaling Great Wall for the second time in the costume of the five Olympic rings, bringing the Games and the Great Wall to an early rendezvous.

Fourteen years later, Beijing became the first city in the Olympic history to have held both the Summer Olympics and Winter Olympics.

“Faster, higher, stronger – together”, the “two-times Olympic city” and the spirit it embodies bring hope and strength to all mankind.