Sweden’s New Diplomatic Force: Maria Malmer Stenergaard Takes the Helm
Sweden Names New Foreign Minister Amid NATO Membership and Ukraine Support
Sweden has appointed Maria Malmer Stenergard as its new foreign minister, tasking her with leading the country’s Ukraine policy and navigating its recent NATO membership.
Malmer Stenergard, a former migration chief, takes over the role from Tobias Billstrom, who resigned last week, prompting a cabinet reshuffle. As a member of the ruling Moderate Party, she has been instrumental in shaping the government’s immigration policy.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine, stating that it is the biggest foreign policy task in the coming years. Malmer Stenergard echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need to continue pressuring Russia with sanctions and working towards Ukraine’s EU membership.
The new foreign minister also acknowledged the significance of foreign policy cooperation within the EU, particularly in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. She emphasized that the government is committed to making a paradigm shift, with a focus on tackling gang crime and reversing previously liberal immigration policies.
Kristersson’s government, which relies on the support of the Sweden Democrats, aims to cut income taxes in its upcoming budget while prioritizing the fight against gang crime and immigration reform.