Saudi restores diplomatic links with Sweden

Saudi Arabia decided on Friday to restore diplomatic links with Sweden by sending its ambassador back to Stockholm, Al-Arabiya News Channel has reported. The move came after the Swedes apologised for the recent crisis with the Saudi government.

Sweden’s King Carl Gustaf XVI communicated to Saudi Arabia’s King Salman his affirmation of the strength and resilience of relations between the two countries. Prime Minister Stefan Lofen apologised for any interpretations of events and statements which may have caused offence to Saudi Arabia or Islam. According to the TV station, which is very close to Saudi decision-makers, Lofen said that he hoped Riyadh would realise Stockholm’s genuine concern over relations.

Reuters said that Sweden’s foreign ministry could not confirm the news but noted that a Swedish envoy to Saudi Arabia had assured the Saudi king on Friday that recent comments from Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom were not meant to insult Saudi Arabia or Islam. “We hope to see the Saudi ambassador back in Stockholm soon and a return to normal relations between our countries,” Wallstrom said.

Saudi Arabia withdrew its ambassador earlier this month over Swedish criticism of the Saudis’ human rights violations, which was considered by Riyadh to be interference in its internal affairs.