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Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard concluded a visit to Saudi Arabia, emphasizing her country's "full solidarity" with the Kingdom during "difficult times" and highlighting the strong, expanding bilateral relationship. Stenergard described Saudi Arabia as a "highly valued partner and interlocutor on regional and global issues."

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I have long planned to visit Saudi Arabia and I am very pleased to finally be here. It is important for me to be able to personally convey my government’s sincere support and solidarity with Saudi Arabia in current difficult times.

During discussions with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Stenergard outlined Sweden's stance on major international conflicts, including its "strong support to Ukraine." The two ministers also addressed shared interests in global peace and stability within a rules-based international order. Sweden's commitment to upholding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea, and the Bab el-Mandeb strait was also a key topic, with Sweden participating in initiatives like the French-British effort and contributing to the EU-led Operation Aspides.

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We commend the Kingdom’s resilience and commitment to support dialogue and peaceful solutions. Sweden and Saudi Arabia share a joint interest in global peace and stability within a rules-based international order.

Stenergard also met with representatives from Swedish companies operating in Saudi Arabia, such as Envac, Getinge, and TetraPak. She expressed gratitude for their contributions to Saudi Arabia's development and for embodying Sweden's spirit of innovation. The long-standing presence of Swedish firms like Ericsson and ABB in the Saudi market, dating back to the 1950s and 60s, was noted for creating jobs and fostering economic ties.

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Sweden’s position is clear: we urge all parties to continue talks and pursue a diplomatic solution.

Regarding the broader geopolitical situation, particularly the "US-Israel war on Iran," Stenergard stated that Sweden views the situation with "great concern." The Swedish position calls for continued dialogue and a diplomatic solution, emphasizing the global interest in achieving sustainable peace. Key concerns for any final arrangement include ensuring free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and addressing threats to regional and international security.

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Sweden is engaged in efforts to uphold freedom of navigation in the region, such as the French British initiative, together with Saudi Arabia.