Sweden Expresses Solidarity and Condolences to Algeria Following Fires, Promises Action Against Holy Qur’an Desecration
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- July 25, 2023- The Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Community Abroad, Ahmed Ataf, received a phone call from the Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tobias Billström, today. The call was to extend Sweden’ sincere condolences to Algeria for the tragic loss of lives and devastation caused by the recent fires in some regions of the country. Minister Billström expressed Sweden’s unwavering solidarity with Algeria during this painful and challenging time.
The conversation between the two diplomats delved into the relations between Algeria and Sweden, with Minister Billström emphasizing his country’s commitment to nurturing and diversifying these ties to benefit both nations.
However, the talks also centered on a pressing issue concerning the desecration of the Noble Qur’an in Stockholm. Minister Billström condemned these abhorrent acts unequivocally, describing them as despicable and not reflective of Swedish values or principles of coexistence and openness.
Acknowledging the constitutional limitations on the Swedish government’s powers to address such behavior effectively, Minister Billström disclosed an ongoing initiative within the Swedish Ministry of Justice. This initiative aims to explore possibilities for adapting Swedish laws related to maintaining public order, ensuring that unacceptable acts, like the desecration of religious texts, are met with appropriate responses.
Minister Ahmed Ataf raised the matter of Algeria’s official protest, communicated to the Swedish diplomatic representation. The letter conveyed Algeria’ strong condemnation of these immoral and uncivilized acts that deeply affect Muslims worldwide and provoke their sentiments.
