Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard presented on 18 February the Statement of Foreign Policy for 2026.
Maria Malmer Stenergard said Asia-Pacific security and Europe’s security are becoming increasingly interlinked, stating that;
“The Asia-Pacific region is where the greatest economic growth is expected. The security of Asia and Europe is also becoming increasingly interlinked.”
She said Sweden will intensify dialogue with ASEAN countries, alongside stronger cooperation with Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.
On China, she described it as a leading economy and technology power, but under authoritarian rule and with growing geopolitical ambitions.
She said Sweden is open to dialogue and cooperation with China on issues like equal-terms trade and climate change, in line with Swedish interests.
She also said Sweden will keep raising human rights concerns, called China’s stance toward Taiwan “worrying,” and rejected threats of force, stating;
“China’s conduct towards Taiwan is worrying, and threats of military action are unacceptable. China’s enabling of Russia’s war in Ukraine has a direct, negative impact on the security of Sweden and Europe.”
