For the first time in 22 years, a Chinese foreign minister has visited Sweden. On Saturday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi was hosted in Stockholm by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard.
A significant portion of the dialogue centered on trade relations. Speaking to the TT news agency during a press briefing outside the Foreign Ministry, Malmer Stenergard highlighted that the European Union is currently more aligned than ever regarding its trade policy with China. This shift occurs as the 27 EU member states advocate for stricter policies to curb China’s trade dominance within the region. Malmer Stenergard emphasized the necessity of a level playing field, stating that the EU is prepared to implement measures to ensure Swedish companies can compete globally on equal terms.
The ongoing war in Ukraine also featured prominently in the discussions. While China has presented itself as a potential mediator, the EU has recently leveled accusations against Beijing for allegedly supporting Russia’s war efforts economically and providing military training. Malmer Stenergard noted that while the topic was addressed, no clear progress was made, adding that it was evident the two sides hold different views on the conflict.
Furthermore, the Swedish government raised the case of Swedish-Chinese publisher Gui Minhai, who has been detained in China since 2015 on charges of providing intelligence to foreign powers. Given that Minhai has been held for over a decade, Sweden continues to press for his release. Malmer Stenergard confirmed that authorities have been informed he is in good health and reiterated that Sweden will maintain its efforts to secure his freedom.
