The Saudi Arabia – Sweden row
Saudi Arabia recalled envoy to Sweden amid diplomatic row – YouTube video with Iranian PressTV. I comment on the Sweden-Saudi Aabia conflict, points out that it is good that Sweden introduces some ethical consideration but that it lacks a positive vision in Swedish foreign policy. Certainly Saudi Arabia – now the world’s largest arms importer – doesn’t need more weapons. It is wrong to cut dialogue opportunities as Saudi Arabia does – in the modern world, dialogue with respect is the name of the game: I would add that at last, a Western country stands up to Saudi Arabia on human rights. For once we can be a little proud of Sweden’s foreign policy. Germany has also stopped amrs exports to Saudi Arabia. Now, could the other EU countries – recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize – and the U.S. please do the same! Please see this appreciation of Sweden in the US. Ishaan Tharoor in The Washington Post •
