Kristersson praised Reinfeldt: “Thank you, Fredrik!”

Although Fredrik Reinfeldt has kept a low profile within the Moderate Party for many years, he made a rare appearance this weekend at the party’s major gathering, Sverigemötet, in Stockholm. The visit attracted attention—not least after Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson publicly highlighted his predecessor’s significance for the party’s development.

Around 2,500 Moderates participated in the weekend’s event at Stockholm Waterfront, where several international and Swedish political figures took part. Among the guests was also Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who spoke to the attendees.

Reinfeldt attended Friday’s dinner and gave an appreciated address to party members. According to people present, he was received very warmly by the audience—so warmly, in fact, that he received more applause than anyone else.

On Saturday, Reinfeldt was also mentioned from the stage by Kristersson, who linked today’s Moderate policies to the period of reforms that characterized the Alliance years.

The Prime Minister especially emphasized the work-first principle and the importance of responsibility, employment, and performance—values which he stated continue to permeate the party’s politics. He simultaneously thanked Reinfeldt for the work done during his time as party leader and prime minister.

– We also have Fredrik Reinfeldt with us at Sverigemötet. The last time Sweden had a government with as intense a reform agenda was during his time and under the Alliance. And the work-first principle lives on. To make an effort. To go the extra mile. To do your best. For yourself, but also for Sweden. These are values that have built our country. Thank you, Fredrik, said Kristersson at the beginning of his speech.

Watch the full speech: