A small number of Palestinians gathered outside their new embassy in Stockholm, the Swedish capital, on Tuesday as the building was opened with a reception attended by Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas earlier concluded a swift visit to the country with a news conference ahead of the opening, in a trip that cemented closer ties just months after Sweden became the first western EU country to recognize a Palestinian state. Abbas called on other countries to follow Sweden's lead. "Your recognition ... should push forward negotiations in the peace process," Abbas claimed. At the press conference with Abbas, Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven promised more aid for the Palestinians but emphasized he wanted progress on reform. "There are challenges: We must help one another to fight corruption, increase gender equality, improve respect for human rights and of course continue the state building process," Lofven said. A deal signed by Abbas and Lofven will see Sweden raise aid to the Palestinians by 1.5 billion kronor ($179 million) over the next five years. Hala Husni Fariz will act as the Palestinian ambassador to Sweden.
Credit: Reuters
Palestinian embassy opens in Stockholm
Opening comes after Sweden becomes first western EU country to recognize Palestinian state • Sweden to increase aid to Palestinians by $179 million over five years • "Your recognition ... should push forward negotiations in the peace process," says Abbas.
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