Maria Malmer Stenergard visits Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates
Published
On 8–10 June, Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard is visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The visit will focus on the regional crisis and Sweden’s bilateral relations with the Gulf States.
“With this visit I want to show my solidarity with Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, who have been hard hit by the conflict. Together with the countries in the region, I'd also like to discuss how Sweden can contribute to a long-term solution. At a time of increasing uncertainty, it is important for Sweden and the EU to build relations and strengthen global cooperation. Sweden has cutting-edge expertise in a number of areas, such as the green transition, digitalisation and energy, which are of interest to the Gulf States. There is considerable potential for increased Swedish exports to these countries,” says Ms Malmer Stenergard.
During her visit, Ms Malmer Stenergard will meet the foreign ministers of each of the countries. The agenda for these meetings will include the situation in the region, its consequences for the Gulf States, international trade and energy supplies, and potential future scenarios. Bilateral trade and other areas of cooperation of common interest, such as mediation, will also be discussed during the visit. Ms Malmer Stenergard will also have an opportunity to meet some of the many Swedes and representatives of Swedish businesses based in the region.
Sweden’s support to GCC Member States
The Government welcomes the ceasefire between Iran and the US/Israel and calls for continued restraint and diplomatic efforts in pursuit of a long-term solution to the conflict. Sweden stands in solidarity with those countries who have been subjected to attacks by Iran, and has repeatedly condemned attacks on civilian targets in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Sweden views the relations between Iran and Russia with concern. Sweden has also condemned Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which is in contravention of international law and the principles of freedom of navigation. Freedom of navigation and respect for international law are common core interests for both Sweden and the Gulf States.
Press contact
Press Secretary to Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard
Phone (switchboard) +46 8 405 10 00
Mobile +46 73-804 34 48
email to Cornelia Norman
