Mr. President, First Lady, Madam minister, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

It is a great pleasure for the Crown Princess and me to be here, celebrating with all of you, Latvia’s Centenary. We are very touched by the warm reception with which we have been received.              

Thank you Ms. Dagnija Baltiņa, Director of the Special Collections Department in the National Library, for inviting us today. I heard that you have nicknamed the Library ‘the castle of light’. As someone who has seen many castles, I must say that this is an exceptional one. And indeed, it is a castle of light… The light of the Latvian nation.

Traditionally, a nation keeps its most valuable treasures in a castle. But the treasures you keep here are not made of gold or ivory. Here the treasures are the hundreds of thousands of books, poems, songs and letters that are found in every corner and on every floor.

In your Cabinet of Folksongs – or “Dainis Skapis” - almost two hundred and seventy thousands folk songs are kept. Songs that have been sung by the Latvian people for centuries and have kept the spirit of your nation alive through dark times and oppression. Each song forms part of the story, of your great nation, Latvia.

The inspiring concept of receiving books from your official guests during this centennial, has given us a great opportunity to give Latvian people a very personal gift: The children’s book by author and illustrator Jakob Martin Strid “The Incredible Story of the Giant Pear”. This book is one we have enjoyed reading many times as a family. And this choice was one, our children fully approved.

It is a fun and heart-warming story about two friends – an elephant and a cat – who sail out on the deep seas using a giant pear as a ship. They face many dangers along the way and are nearly kidnapped by three cruel – and crazy – pirates. Overall, the book is about being brave, believing in yourself and following your heart. A great message, not just for children but for all of us.

This book is very popular in Denmark – among both children and adults. And it is now sold in more than 30 countries, including Latvia - art and humour transcend not only generations, but also borders.

The Latvian version of the book is currently sold out. Nevertheless, we were able to get our hands on a copy, so we could donate two books today – one in Danish and one in Latvian.

The last time I visited Latvia during an official visit was in 1992 with Her Majesty the Queen. At that time, I was studying political science at the University of Aarhus. I learnt from fellow Latvian students that there was a lack of books within the field of political science in Latvia. Therefore, some fellow students and professors decided to collect and donate eight hundred book titles that they got from other students and teachers.

I had certainly less luggage with me on this trip, with just 2 books to carry.

Looking around in this impressive Library, it is perhaps safe to conclude: There is no longer any lack of books in Latvia!

Mr. President, this is yet another testament to the incredible journey your nation has made over the past twenty-seven years after regaining independence.

The Crown Princess and I want to congratulate Latvia not only on its hundred year’s anniversary, but also on its economic and social achievements. 

Latvia has found its’ home, amongst the free, democratic and sovereign nations of the world. Denmark and Latvia share close bilateral relations and are allies within EU and the transatlantic organizations, importantly NATO.

Our societies are closely integrated in many fields, and we have strong ties at all levels of our societies.

I am confident that our close and friendly relations will endure, and that Latvia’s next hundred years will be bright.

Thank you.