New Swedish EU Ambassador appointed
Today the Government appointed Christian Danielsson as Sweden's Permanent Representative at the Permanent Representation of Sweden to the European Union in Brussels.
"Sweden's Ambassador to the EU is a key person for EU issues, not least during Sweden's Presidency in autumn 2009. Christian Danielsson has extensive experience of European cooperation and a considerable network in Brussels. I am therefore extremely pleased that Christian Danielsson has said yes," comments Minister for EU Affairs Cecilia Malmström. (Photo: Erik Luntang)
Carl Bildt on the arrest of suspected war criminal Radovan Karadzic
Following the arrest of Radovan Karadzic, wanted for war crimes, Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt has made the following statement:
"Late this evening, the office of the Serbian President in Belgrade announced that Radovan Karadzic has been arrested. Needless to say, this is extremely welcome news. I myself experienced how frustrating it was that he could not be brought to trial immediately after the end of the war in Bosnia."
Swedish Government sells Vasakronan for a value of SEK 41 bn
Today, the Swedish Government decided to sell the property company Vasakronan to AP Fastigheter. The total value is SEK 41.1 bn. An agreement was signed earlier today.
French Presidency of the EU
Today, France takes over the Presidency of the EU Council of Ministers. For six months, the country holding the Presidency heads the work of the EU; in a year's time it will be the turn of Sweden to take on the Presidency after the Czech Republic. Together with France and the Czech Republic, Sweden is part of what is known as a 'Presidency trio'.
New Swedish strategy for development assistance to the West Bank and Gaza
The Government has adopted a new strategy for development assistance to the West Bank and Gaza. According to the strategy, Palestinian priorities and the Palestinian Reform and Development Plan will serve as guidelines for Swedish development assistance.
Sweden's development cooperation in Sudan
The Government today adopted a new strategy for Sweden's development cooperation with Sudan. Sweden's aim is to contribute to peaceful development, respect for human rights and national unity in Sudan.
The Government wants to introduce fees for foreign students
The Government is planning to present a proposal to the Riksdag on a system of fees for non-European students (from countries outside the EEA). The decision is based in part on a report by an inquiry appointed by the former government, which proposed a fee system.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt on Zimbabwe
"The responsibility for the state-supported terror that is now destroying the possibilities for democracy in Zimbabwe clearly lies with Robert Mugabe."
European Council on 19 and 20 June
EU Heads of State and Government will meet as the European Council on 19 and 20 June, in Brussels. Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt, Foreign Minister Carl Bildt and EU Minister Cecilia Malmström will participate. One important item on the European Council agenda will be high food prices. The EU leaders are also expected to reconfirm the European Perspective for the Western Balkans.
Andreas Carlgren visiting USA
Minister for the Environment Andreas Carlgren is visiting Washington DC, USA on Monday and Tuesday 23-24 June. Mr Carlgren will discuss the international climate negotiations with the presidential candidates' advisers, senators, members of congress and the current administration.
