Sweden appoints Maria Malmer Stenergard as new foreign minister

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - Sweden has appointed Maria Malmer Stenergard as its new foreign minister, succeeding Tobias Billström in a significant Cabinet reshuffle announced on Tuesday.

Stenergard, who previously served as Sweden’s migration minister, will now lead the country’s foreign policy efforts.

Her appointment comes amid Sweden’s recent shift from its traditional non-alignment stance to joining NATO, a major diplomatic achievement facilitated by Billström during his tenure.

Billström’s unexpected resignation last week prompted the reshuffle, which saw several key ministers reassigned.

As the former head of migration, Stenergard has been central to navigating Sweden's immigration policies, a role that saw her tackling major issues such as the refugee crisis and integration.

Stenergard’s appointment signals a focus on maintaining Sweden's proactive stance within NATO and continuing its unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.