LONDON: In response to the criticism over the repeated desecration of the Holy Quran in the country, Sweden is aiming to improve its relations with Muslim countries, according to Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom.
Sweden’s Foreign Minister held a constructive meeting with more than 20 ambassadors from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states in Stockholm, expressing his commitment to open and constructive dialogue.
The Swedish Foreign Ministry stated on Saturday that restoring trust and confidence takes time, and Minister Billstrom plans to devote a substantial part of this electoral period to strengthening relationships with Muslim countries. He emphasized that the Swedish government strongly rejects the burnings of copies of holy scriptures and is taking action to address the issue.
Sweden Considering Options to Avoid Desecration Incidents
The Justice Ministry has initiated an analysis and is working on the terms of reference for an inquiry to review the Public Order Act. This step aims to find ways to prevent such desecration in the future. In addition, the government is considering using emergency powers under the Public Order Act as a potential solution to prevent further Holy Quran burnings.
Minister Billstrom intends to travel to OIC countries to engage in discussions and dialogues, and Sweden plans to host discussions and dialogues during the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York in September.
Recent months have witnessed a rise in acts of Holy Quran burning, desecration, or attempts to do so in several northern European and Nordic countries. Sweden’s efforts to strengthen ties with the Muslim world signal a commitment to address the issue and foster understanding and cooperation between communities.
