Kristersson describes how Tuesday, February 4, "has been etched as a dark day". Ten people were shot dead by a lone perpetrator in the worst massacre in the country's modern history.
Sweden is a country in mourning. My thoughts are with the relatives who have now received the call they feared would come, the worst call you can get, says the Prime Minister from Sagerska house.
We stand here beside you, all of Sweden bears the sorrow together with you.
Shared Responsibility
Kristersson reiterates what he said earlier in the week, that "the responsibility for the deaths rests with the one who committed the atrocious crimes".
But the responsibility for helping you to find life again, we take together.
He also highlights in his speech that several of the victims have a foreign background.
They were people who wanted to do something good. Who wanted to contribute to a better society. When the perpetrator attacked them, he attacked us all.
The motive is unclear. But Kristersson emphasizes that the act arouses anxiety, fear, and anger in many.
Among students and parents who wonder if it can happen again. Among people with a foreign background, who testify to a sense of special vulnerability, he says.
"Only One Sweden"
According to Kristersson, we must now deal with the trauma, both as a society and as human beings.
Hatred is not defeated by more hatred, but by us closing ranks and uniting behind everything we love in our country, everything we want to protect and build on, he says.
He urges everyone to "think about what you can do for those who now need support and human warmth".
Because when it comes down to it, there is only one Sweden. Not us and them. Not young or old. Not born here or born abroad. Not country or city. Not right or left.
