Russia's foreign ministry has warned against the inclusion of Finland and Sweden in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

According to Maria Zakharova, the ministry’s spokeswoman, ''The persistent attempts by NATO to draw those countries into the orbit of its interests and opportunistic policies haven’t gone unnoticed by Russia.''

“It’s quite obvious that Finland and Sweden joining NATO … would have serious military and political consequences that would require an adequate response from the Russian side,” she highlighted.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-month-long-military-drills-concluded-near-ukraine-440080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''The policy of not being part of any alliances, traditionally pursued by Stockholm and Helsinki, is viewed by Moscow as an important factor in ensuring stability in northern Europe,'' Zakharova added.

It comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin had said NATO had "brazenly tricked" the country with successive waves of expansion since the Cold War.

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Moscow says the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and has contravened assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.

It has presented the West with sweeping security demands, saying NATO must not admit new members and seeking to bar the United States from establishing new bases in former Soviet republics.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-cannot-dictate-to-nato-says-germany-438184">Also read |&nbsp;Russia cannot 'dictate' to NATO, says Germany</a>

Speaking about Moscow’s proposals, Zakharova reiterated that ''ruling out the expansion of NATO and the deployment of weapon systems that threaten our security near the Russian borders are going to be the main, key issues at the upcoming talks with the US and NATO.''

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday to discuss concerns about Russia’s military build-up on the borders of Ukraine, the US State Department said.

"They discussed NATO’s dual-track approach to Russia, noting the alliance remains ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia while standing united to defend and protect allies," the State Department said on Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's foreign ministry has warned against the inclusion of Finland and Sweden in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). According to Maria Zakharova, the ministry’s spokeswoman, ''The persistent attempts by NATO to draw those countries into the orbit of its interests and opportunistic policies haven’t gone unnoticed by Russia.

Russia's foreign ministry has warned against the inclusion of Finland and Sweden in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). According to Maria Zakharova, the ministry’s spokeswoman, ''The persistent attempts by NATO to draw those countries into the orbit of its interests and opportunistic policies haven’t gone unnoticed by Russia.'' “It’s quite obvious that Finland and Sweden joining NATO … would have serious military and political consequences that would require an adequate response from the Russian side,” she highlighted. ''The policy of not being part of any alliances, traditionally pursued by Stockholm and Helsinki, is viewed by Moscow as an important factor in ensuring stability in northern Europe,'' Zakharova added. It comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin had said NATO had "brazenly tricked" the country with successive waves of expansion since the Cold War. Also see | Rebel-held regions of eastern Ukraine are growing closer to Russia Moscow says the expansion of NATO threatens Russia and has contravened assurances given to it as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. It has presented the West with sweeping security demands, saying NATO must not admit new members and seeking to bar the United States from establishing new bases in former Soviet republics. Also read | Russia cannot 'dictate' to NATO, says Germany Speaking about Moscow’s proposals, Zakharova reiterated that ''ruling out the expansion of NATO and the deployment of weapon systems that threaten our security near the Russian borders are going to be the main, key issues at the upcoming talks with the US and NATO.'' US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday to discuss concerns about Russia’s military build-up on the borders of Ukraine, the US State Department said. "They discussed NATO’s dual-track approach to Russia, noting the alliance remains ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia while standing united to defend and protect allies," the State Department said on Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia warns NATO against inclusion of Finland, Sweden

One of two Danish crew members missing from a capsized barge has been found dead in the hull after an overnight collision with a British cargo vessel in a busy Baltic Sea route off Sweden.

One crew member found dead after Danish, British ships collide in Baltic

It seemed like a new era was dawning in Sweden on Wednesday when Magdalena Andersson, leader of the center-left Social Democratic Party, became the country’s first female prime minister.

Her historic term lasted about seven hours.

She resigned Thursday, a day after a painful budget defeat in Parliament. She had only just formed a two-party minority government with the Green Party. But after their budget was rejected in favor of one proposed by the opposition, which included the far-right Sweden Democrats party, the Green Party quit the coalition out of frustration. That left Andersson without a partner.

Her resignation plunged Sweden into political uncertainty. The country’s political landscape was already frayed by fragile coalition governments and a vote of no confidence in June against the former prime minister, Stefan Lofven. Andersson later succeeded Lofven as leader of the Social Democrats.

Sweden, at one point, accepted more refugees per capita than any other European nation. But its progressive image has gradually been eroded by far-right populist sentiment that has taken hold, led by the Sweden Democrats party. The political spectrum has shifted to the right, with increasing anti-immigrant and anti-European voices.

Andersson, 54, announced that she was the new prime minister in a Facebook statement a little before 10 a.m. local time Wednesday. A little after 4:30 p.m. the same day, she released a second Facebook statement announcing her resignation.

“According to constitutional practice, a coalition government should resign if one party leaves the government,” she said. “For me, it is about respect, but I also do not want to lead a government where there may be grounds to question its legitimacy.”

Per Bolund, a Green Party spokesperson, said his faction left the government because Parliament had approved a state budget negotiated by the Sweden Democrats. The party, with neo-Nazi roots and known for its anti-immigrant politics, has seen a steady rise in popularity over the last few years.

Until a new government is elected, the current one will remain on. Andersson, who served as Sweden’s finance minister since 2014, has said she is still ready to serve as prime minister, but only in a one-party government.

It seemed like a new era was dawning in Sweden on Wednesday when Magdalena Andersson, leader of the center-left Social Democratic Party, became the country’s first female prime minister.

It seemed like a new era was dawning in Sweden on Wednesday when Magdalena Andersson, leader of the center-left Social Democratic Party, became the country’s first female prime minister. Her historic term lasted about seven hours. She resigned Thursday, a day after a painful budget defeat in Parliament. She had only just formed a two-party minority government with the Green Party. But after their budget was rejected in favor of one proposed by the opposition, which included the far-right Sweden Democrats party, the Green Party quit the coalition out of frustration. That left Andersson without a partner. Her resignation plunged Sweden into political uncertainty. The country’s political landscape was already frayed by fragile coalition governments and a vote of no confidence in June against the former prime minister, Stefan Lofven. Andersson later succeeded Lofven as leader of the Social Democrats. Sweden, at one point, accepted more refugees per capita than any other European nation. But its progressive image has gradually been eroded by far-right populist sentiment that has taken hold, led by the Sweden Democrats party. The political spectrum has shifted to the right, with increasing anti-immigrant and anti-European voices. Andersson, 54, announced that she was the new prime minister in a Facebook statement a little before 10 a.m. local time Wednesday. A little after 4:30 p.m. the same day, she released a second Facebook statement announcing her resignation. “According to constitutional practice, a coalition government should resign if one party leaves the government,” she said. “For me, it is about respect, but I also do not want to lead a government where there may be grounds to question its legitimacy.” Per Bolund, a Green Party spokesperson, said his faction left the government because Parliament had approved a state budget negotiated by the Sweden Democrats. The party, with neo-Nazi roots and known for its anti-immigrant politics, has seen a steady rise in popularity over the last few years. Until a new government is elected, the current one will remain on. Andersson, who served as Sweden’s finance minister since 2014, has said she is still ready to serve as prime minister, but only in a one-party government.

Sweden chose its first female prime minister. She lasted about 7 hours

Sweden's first female Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson had to quit just 7 hours after taking the job. Why did "bulldozer" Andersson resign? Palki Sharma tells you

Gravitas: Sweden's first woman Prime Minister quits 7 hours after taking office

Sweden is all set to script history, Magdalena Andersson has been approved by Sweden's parliament as the country's first ever woman prime minister, after replacing Stefan Lofven as leader of the Social Democrats.

Sweden to get first woman prime minister Magdalena Andersson

Sweden's Finance Minister Magdalena Andersson moved a step closer to becoming country's first woman prime minister. The ruling social democrat party elected her as its leader in place of Stefan Lofven.

Lofven is current prime minister of the country. But he wants to step down before national elections. The polls are due in September 2022.

Lofven's His minority coalition with the Green Party has struggled to survive since coming to power in 2014 and Andersson would need backing from the Greens as well as the Left and Centre parties to also succeed Lofven as leader of the country.

Norway, neighbour of Sweden, got its first female leader 40 years ago. Sweden's failure to follow suit has grated in a country that prides itself on leading the world in gender equality and has a self-described "feminist" foreign policy.

If appointed, Andersson will face tough budget negotiations this year and need to reverse a deficit in the opinion polls if she is to extend her premiership beyond next September.

She said her priorities would be reducing the role of the private sector in education, health and elderly care, addressing climate change and tackling Sweden's wave of gang crime.

"With all the problems we have had, it is clear to people that we need to do more together," she told reporters.

The 54-year-old will become prime minister if a majority in parliament does not reject her in a confirmation vote, probably this month.

Support from the Centre and Left parties is not a given, however.

The Centre Party wants changes to rules over forestry rights and building regulations in exchange for its support. Those policies are opposed by the Greens.

The Left wants a say in policy while the Centre Party wants them excluded.

A vote against Andersson could lead to a snap election or to Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson becoming prime minister.

His centre-right bloc is backed by the Sweden Democrats, a populist, anti-immigration party that the Greens, Left and Centre want to prevent from having a say in government policy.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sweden's Finance Minister Magdalena Andersson moved a step closer to becoming country's first woman prime minister. The ruling social democrat party elected her as its leader in place of Stefan Lofven.

Sweden's Finance Minister Magdalena Andersson moved a step closer to becoming country's first woman prime minister. The ruling social democrat party elected her as its leader in place of Stefan Lofven. Lofven is current prime minister of the country. But he wants to step down before national elections. The polls are due in September 2022. Lofven's His minority coalition with the Green Party has struggled to survive since coming to power in 2014 and Andersson would need backing from the Greens as well as the Left and Centre parties to also succeed Lofven as leader of the country. Norway, neighbour of Sweden, got its first female leader 40 years ago. Sweden's failure to follow suit has grated in a country that prides itself on leading the world in gender equality and has a self-described "feminist" foreign policy. If appointed, Andersson will face tough budget negotiations this year and need to reverse a deficit in the opinion polls if she is to extend her premiership beyond next September. She said her priorities would be reducing the role of the private sector in education, health and elderly care, addressing climate change and tackling Sweden's wave of gang crime. "With all the problems we have had, it is clear to people that we need to do more together," she told reporters. The 54-year-old will become prime minister if a majority in parliament does not reject her in a confirmation vote, probably this month. Support from the Centre and Left parties is not a given, however. The Centre Party wants changes to rules over forestry rights and building regulations in exchange for its support. Those policies are opposed by the Greens. The Left wants a say in policy while the Centre Party wants them excluded. A vote against Andersson could lead to a snap election or to Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson becoming prime minister. His centre-right bloc is backed by the Sweden Democrats, a populist, anti-immigration party that the Greens, Left and Centre want to prevent from having a say in government policy. (With inputs from agencies)

Sweden moves closer to getting first woman prime minister

India and Sweden are old business partners and now within the post-COVID-19 world, both countries are looking to increase their business partnerships. Sweden's ambassador to India Klas Molin speaks to WION on the same.

Exclusive: Sweden, India time-tested business allies says Klas Molin

Sweden's response to the spread of coronavirus was too slow and preparations to handle a pandemic were insufficient, a commission investigating the country's response to COVID-19 said on Friday.

Sweden's early strategy, shunning lockdowns and measures such as face masks and only gradually tightening curbs, made the country an outlier in the first year of the pandemic when many countries across Europe chose to implement tougher restrictions.

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The commission said it would address Sweden's no-lockdown strategy in its final report, but that its preliminary findings showed that measures were introduced late both in relation to the country's Nordic neighbours and the spread of the virus in Sweden during the spring of 2020.

"Sweden's handling of the pandemic has been marked by a slowness of response," the commission said.

"The initial disease prevention and control measures were insufficient to stop or even substantially limit the spread of the virus in the country."

The commission, appointed by the government amid pressure from parliament, also noted that it had taken "far too long" to build sufficient testing capacity with initially only targeted groups, such as healthcare staff, being tested.

Authorities relied heavily on voluntary recommendations for people to socially distance and wash their hands, and public places such as schools, restaurants and businesses remained largely open, with the government leaving much of the responsibility for fighting the virus with the health agency and its chief epidemiologist, Anders Tegnell.

Sweden has recorded more than 15,000 deaths from coronavirus, many times the per capita level of its Nordic neighbours that implemented tougher restrictions, but still lower than many countries that locked down tightly, such as Britain.

Its pandemic strategy has been controversial at home and abroad. Critics have called it reckless and cruel but the approach has also earned praise for being more sustainable and business-friendly and as a model for living with the virus as it becomes endemic.

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Restrictions were gradually tightened in later waves of the pandemic before Sweden, along with other Western countries, began abandoning curbs following the rollout of vaccines. Nearly all restrictions have now been lifted.

The commission investigating the coronavirus response has no legal power beyond making public its findings with the aim of improving Sweden's ability to handle pandemics and similar situations.

Sweden's response to the spread of coronavirus was too slow and preparations to handle a pandemic were insufficient, a commission investigating the country's response to COVID-19 said on Friday.

Sweden's response to the spread of coronavirus was too slow and preparations to handle a pandemic were insufficient, a commission investigating the country's response to COVID-19 said on Friday. Sweden's early strategy, shunning lockdowns and measures such as face masks and only gradually tightening curbs, made the country an outlier in the first year of the pandemic when many countries across Europe chose to implement tougher restrictions. Also Read | Antidepressant drug Fluvoxamine can help reduce Covid hospitalisations by 30%: Study The commission said it would address Sweden's no-lockdown strategy in its final report, but that its preliminary findings showed that measures were introduced late both in relation to the country's Nordic neighbours and the spread of the virus in Sweden during the spring of 2020. "Sweden's handling of the pandemic has been marked by a slowness of response," the commission said. "The initial disease prevention and control measures were insufficient to stop or even substantially limit the spread of the virus in the country." The commission, appointed by the government amid pressure from parliament, also noted that it had taken "far too long" to build sufficient testing capacity with initially only targeted groups, such as healthcare staff, being tested. Authorities relied heavily on voluntary recommendations for people to socially distance and wash their hands, and public places such as schools, restaurants and businesses remained largely open, with the government leaving much of the responsibility for fighting the virus with the health agency and its chief epidemiologist, Anders Tegnell. Sweden has recorded more than 15,000 deaths from coronavirus, many times the per capita level of its Nordic neighbours that implemented tougher restrictions, but still lower than many countries that locked down tightly, such as Britain. Its pandemic strategy has been controversial at home and abroad. Critics have called it reckless and cruel but the approach has also earned praise for being more sustainable and business-friendly and as a model for living with the virus as it becomes endemic. Also Read | Merck strikes deal for global access to Covid drug Restrictions were gradually tightened in later waves of the pandemic before Sweden, along with other Western countries, began abandoning curbs following the rollout of vaccines. Nearly all restrictions have now been lifted. The commission investigating the coronavirus response has no legal power beyond making public its findings with the aim of improving Sweden's ability to handle pandemics and similar situations.

Sweden acted too slowly as pandemic swept country, finds probe

In northern Sweden climate change is reshaping arctic landscapes as vital perma frost thaws the changes to its landscape might as well be irreversible. But experts hope that this serves as a warning for other regions also facing climate change. Here's a report.

Climate change reshapes arctic landscapes in Northern Sweden

Einar, one of Sweden's most popular rappers, was shot dead in Stockholm late on Thursday, heightening outrage over gang-related violence that has afflicted the Nordic country in recent years.

Einar, 19, whose real name was Nils Gronberg, was killed in the upmarket Stockholm suburb of Hammarby Sjostad, and no arrests had been made so far. In a previous incident last year, Einar was abducted and assaulted by rival rappers.

"A young life has been extinguished, and I understand that he meant a lot to many young people. It is tragic," Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told TT.

Gronberg, who made his debut at 16, issued four albums, had tens of millions of streams on music platforms and won several Swedish Grammys and other awards.

Last year, he was kidnapped and beaten up by rival rappers with ties to a Stockholm crime gang. Several people, including Yasin Byn, another of Sweden's most successful rappers, were given prison terms for their role in the kidnapping.

Johan Forsell, law and order spokesperson for the main Moderates opposition party, said it was time to put an end to gang violence in Sweden.

"The limits of what can be accepted in a civilized country have been passed a very long time ago," he wrote on Twitter. "We need action not words to turn the tide and get Sweden in order."

Sweden has suffered gang-violence for years and gone from having one of the lowest rates of gun crime in Europe to having one of the highest over the past two decades.

Einar, one of Sweden's most popular rappers, was shot dead in Stockholm late on Thursday, heightening outrage over gang-related violence that has afflicted the Nordic country in recent years.

Einar, one of Sweden's most popular rappers, was shot dead in Stockholm late on Thursday, heightening outrage over gang-related violence that has afflicted the Nordic country in recent years. Einar, 19, whose real name was Nils Gronberg, was killed in the upmarket Stockholm suburb of Hammarby Sjostad, and no arrests had been made so far. In a previous incident last year, Einar was abducted and assaulted by rival rappers. "A young life has been extinguished, and I understand that he meant a lot to many young people. It is tragic," Prime Minister Stefan Lofven told TT. Gronberg, who made his debut at 16, issued four albums, had tens of millions of streams on music platforms and won several Swedish Grammys and other awards. Last year, he was kidnapped and beaten up by rival rappers with ties to a Stockholm crime gang. Several people, including Yasin Byn, another of Sweden's most successful rappers, were given prison terms for their role in the kidnapping. Johan Forsell, law and order spokesperson for the main Moderates opposition party, said it was time to put an end to gang violence in Sweden. "The limits of what can be accepted in a civilized country have been passed a very long time ago," he wrote on Twitter. "We need action not words to turn the tide and get Sweden in order." Sweden has suffered gang-violence for years and gone from having one of the lowest rates of gun crime in Europe to having one of the highest over the past two decades.

Swedish rapper shot dead, stoking outrage over gang violence

Sweden has suspended the use of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine for those aged 30 and under, while Denmark has done the same for those under 18.

Sweden suspends Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for young adults

A new 20-story wooden building in northern Sweden housing a library, six theatre stages and a hotel is set to put art, concerts and meetings at the heart of one of the world's tallest timber constructions.

Fly over the world’s tallest wooden building

Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks who stirred controversy in 2007 over his depiction of Prophet Mohammed as a dog died in a car accident on Sunday. The 75-year-old cartoonist and two police officers were killed as the car they were travelling in collided with an oncoming truck.

Swedish police have ruled out the possibility of a foul play.

"We want to completely exclude an external act targeting the car in which Lars Vilks found himself," Stefan Sinteus, chief of the South Sweden regional investigation unit, told a press conference.

"There is nothing to indicate that, but we want to be certain so we can rule it out," he added.&nbsp;

Police said they have yet to determine the reason why the vehicle that was carrying Vilks and the two officers swerved off the road, breaking through a metal barrier before hitting a truck travelling in the opposite direction in the oncoming lane. A tyre explosion is one of the hypotheses.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-has-sweden-become-the-silicon-valley-of-europe-despite-having-one-of-the-highest-tax-rates-in-the-world-404603">How has Sweden become the Silicon Valley of Europe despite having one of the highest tax rates in the world?</a>

Both vehicles then caught fire and all three passengers died at the scene. The driver of the truck was injured and taken to hospital where he was questioned by investigators.&nbsp;

75-year-old Vilks lived under almost continuous police protection due to numerous threats and attacks from Islamists after his 2007 caricature depicting Mohammed as a dog was published in a Swedish newspaper.

But on Monday police said there had been no new concrete threats against him recently.

On February 14, 2015, a young Danish man of Palestinian origin opened fire when he tried to storm a debate on freedom of expression in Copenhagen, organised after the deadly attack on the Paris offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo.

Vilks escaped unharmed but a 55-year-old Danish film director and a guard at Copenhagen synagogue were both shot dead by the gunman, who was himself killed in a stand-off with Danish police.

(With inputs from agencies)

Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks who stirred controversy in 2007 over his depiction of Prophet Mohammed as a dog died in a car accident on Sunday. The 75-year-old cartoonist and two police officers were killed as the car they were travelling in collided with an oncoming truck.

Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks who stirred controversy in 2007 over his depiction of Prophet Mohammed as a dog died in a car accident on Sunday. The 75-year-old cartoonist and two police officers were killed as the car they were travelling in collided with an oncoming truck. Swedish police have ruled out the possibility of a foul play. "We want to completely exclude an external act targeting the car in which Lars Vilks found himself," Stefan Sinteus, chief of the South Sweden regional investigation unit, told a press conference. "There is nothing to indicate that, but we want to be certain so we can rule it out," he added. Police said they have yet to determine the reason why the vehicle that was carrying Vilks and the two officers swerved off the road, breaking through a metal barrier before hitting a truck travelling in the opposite direction in the oncoming lane. A tyre explosion is one of the hypotheses. Also Read | How has Sweden become the Silicon Valley of Europe despite having one of the highest tax rates in the world? Both vehicles then caught fire and all three passengers died at the scene. The driver of the truck was injured and taken to hospital where he was questioned by investigators. 75-year-old Vilks lived under almost continuous police protection due to numerous threats and attacks from Islamists after his 2007 caricature depicting Mohammed as a dog was published in a Swedish newspaper. But on Monday police said there had been no new concrete threats against him recently. On February 14, 2015, a young Danish man of Palestinian origin opened fire when he tried to storm a debate on freedom of expression in Copenhagen, organised after the deadly attack on the Paris offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. Vilks escaped unharmed but a 55-year-old Danish film director and a guard at Copenhagen synagogue were both shot dead by the gunman, who was himself killed in a stand-off with Danish police. (With inputs from agencies)

Swedish cartoonist who depicted Prophet Mohammed as dog dies in car crash

Sweden's prime minister on Thursday called on&nbsp;Eritrea&nbsp;to free a Swedish-Eritrean&nbsp;journalist&nbsp;held&nbsp;without charge for two decades, as an NGO petitioned Swedish authorities to investigate human rights abuses in the case.

Dawit Isaak was among a group of around two dozen senior cabinet ministers, members of parliament and independent journalists who were seized in a draconian purge in the east African country in September, 2001.

"Today marks&nbsp;20&nbsp;years&nbsp;since Dawit Isaak was arrested in&nbsp;Eritrea. That is an incredibly long time," Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said in a post to social media.

"My government and multiple previous governments have worked intensely with Dawit's case. Our work has so far not had the result we wanted, but we will never give up," Lofven added.

Meanwhile, press rights group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) renewed a call to Swedish prosecutors to investigate crimes against humanity in the case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/evergrande-chairman-reassures-investors-shares-surge-415070">Also read |&nbsp;Evergrande chairman reassures investors, shares surge</a>

A Swedish law adopted in 2014 enabled the prosecution for such crimes even if committed elsewhere in the world.

A similar petition was filed with Swedish authorities in October last year, but prosecutors declined to open a case, arguing there were practical obstacles to the investigation even if there was reason to believe crimes had been committed.

"RSF requests that the Prosecution Authority take their international responsibility and open a preliminary investigation for crimes against humanity in Dawit Isaak's case," the group said in a statement on Thursday.

Isaak was arrested on September 23, 2001, shortly after the Eritrean newspaper he founded, Setit, published articles demanding political reforms.

He had fled to&nbsp;Sweden&nbsp;in 1987 during&nbsp;Eritrea's struggle against Ethiopia which eventually led to independence in 1993. He returned in 2001 to help shape the media landscape.

RSF ranks&nbsp;Eritrea&nbsp;as the world's most repressive country when it comes to press freedom, ahead of North Korea and Turkmenistan.

Sweden's prime minister on Thursday called on Eritrea to free a Swedish-Eritrean journalist held without charge for two decades, as an NGO petitioned Swedish authorities to investigate human rights abuses in the case.

Sweden's prime minister on Thursday called on Eritrea to free a Swedish-Eritrean journalist held without charge for two decades, as an NGO petitioned Swedish authorities to investigate human rights abuses in the case. Dawit Isaak was among a group of around two dozen senior cabinet ministers, members of parliament and independent journalists who were seized in a draconian purge in the east African country in September, 2001. "Today marks 20 years since Dawit Isaak was arrested in Eritrea. That is an incredibly long time," Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said in a post to social media. "My government and multiple previous governments have worked intensely with Dawit's case. Our work has so far not had the result we wanted, but we will never give up," Lofven added. Meanwhile, press rights group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) renewed a call to Swedish prosecutors to investigate crimes against humanity in the case. Also read | Evergrande chairman reassures investors, shares surge A Swedish law adopted in 2014 enabled the prosecution for such crimes even if committed elsewhere in the world. A similar petition was filed with Swedish authorities in October last year, but prosecutors declined to open a case, arguing there were practical obstacles to the investigation even if there was reason to believe crimes had been committed. "RSF requests that the Prosecution Authority take their international responsibility and open a preliminary investigation for crimes against humanity in Dawit Isaak's case," the group said in a statement on Thursday. Isaak was arrested on September 23, 2001, shortly after the Eritrean newspaper he founded, Setit, published articles demanding political reforms. He had fled to Sweden in 1987 during Eritrea's struggle against Ethiopia which eventually led to independence in 1993. He returned in 2001 to help shape the media landscape. RSF ranks Eritrea as the world's most repressive country when it comes to press freedom, ahead of North Korea and Turkmenistan.

Sweden urges Eritrea to release journalist held for 20 years

Swedish&nbsp;capital Stockholm has become the Silicon Valley of Europe&nbsp;birthing and incubating the likes of Spotify, Skype, and Klarna, even though it has some of the highest tax rates in the world.

Both established companies and startups are flocking to the city due to its home computer drive, and concurrent early investment in internet connectivity.

Some executives and campaigners say the Scandinavian nation demonstrates that a deep social safety net, often viewed as counter to entrepreneurial spirit, can foster innovation.

It's an outcome that might not have been envisaged by the architects of Sweden's welfare state in the 1950s.

Childcare is, for the most part, free. A range of income insurance funds can protect you if your business fails or you lose your job, guaranteeing up to 80 per cent&nbsp;of your previous salary for the first 300 days of unemployment.

Feast of capitalism

As Klarna's billionaire founder Sebastian Siemiatkowski prepares to stage one of the biggest-ever European fintech company listings, a feast of capitalism, he credits an unlikely backer for his runaway success: the Swedish welfare state.

In particular, the 39-year-old pinpoints a late-1990s government policy to put a computer in every home.

"Computers were inaccessible for low-income families such as mine, but when the reform came into play, my mother bought us a computer the very next day," he said.

Startup rate vs Silicon Valley

Although overall investments are larger in the bigger European economies of Britain and France and their longstanding finance hubs, Sweden punches above its weight in some regards.

It has the third-highest startup rate in the world, behind Turkey and Spain, with 20 startups per 1000 employees and the highest three-year survival rate for startups anywhere, at 74 per cent, according to a 2018 study by OECD economists.

Stockholm is second only to Silicon Valley in terms of unicorns - startups valued at above $1 billion - per capita, at around 0.8 per 100,000 inhabitants, according to Sarah Guemouri at venture capital firm Atomico.

Silicon Valley, San Francisco and the Bay Area,&nbsp;&nbsp;boasts 1.4 unicorns per 100,000, said Guemouri, co-author of a 2020 report on European tech companies.

No one can say for sure if the boom will last, though, in a country where capital gains are taxed at 30 percent and income tax can be as high as 60 percent.

In 2016, Spotify said it was considering moving its headquarters out of the country, arguing high taxes made it difficult to attract overseas talent, though it hasn't done so.

Sweden's digital minister Anders Ygeman said that social regulation could make it "possible to fail" and then "be up and running again" for innovators.

Peter Carlsson, CEO of startup Northvolt, which makes Lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and is valued at $11.75 billion, said that ultimately success bred success.

"You're really creating ripple effects when you're seeing the success of somebody else and I think that's perhaps the most important thing in order to create local ecosystems."

(With inputs from agencies)

Swedish capital Stockholm has become the Silicon Valley of Europe birthing and incubating the likes of Spotify, Skype, and Klarna, even though it has some of the highest tax rates in the world.

Swedish capital Stockholm has become the Silicon Valley of Europe birthing and incubating the likes of Spotify, Skype, and Klarna, even though it has some of the highest tax rates in the world. Both established companies and startups are flocking to the city due to its home computer drive, and concurrent early investment in internet connectivity. Some executives and campaigners say the Scandinavian nation demonstrates that a deep social safety net, often viewed as counter to entrepreneurial spirit, can foster innovation. It's an outcome that might not have been envisaged by the architects of Sweden's welfare state in the 1950s. Childcare is, for the most part, free. A range of income insurance funds can protect you if your business fails or you lose your job, guaranteeing up to 80 per cent of your previous salary for the first 300 days of unemployment. Feast of capitalism As Klarna's billionaire founder Sebastian Siemiatkowski prepares to stage one of the biggest-ever European fintech company listings, a feast of capitalism, he credits an unlikely backer for his runaway success: the Swedish welfare state. In particular, the 39-year-old pinpoints a late-1990s government policy to put a computer in every home. "Computers were inaccessible for low-income families such as mine, but when the reform came into play, my mother bought us a computer the very next day," he said. Startup rate vs Silicon Valley Although overall investments are larger in the bigger European economies of Britain and France and their longstanding finance hubs, Sweden punches above its weight in some regards. It has the third-highest startup rate in the world, behind Turkey and Spain, with 20 startups per 1000 employees and the highest three-year survival rate for startups anywhere, at 74 per cent, according to a 2018 study by OECD economists. Stockholm is second only to Silicon Valley in terms of unicorns - startups valued at above $1 billion - per capita, at around 0.8 per 100,000 inhabitants, according to Sarah Guemouri at venture capital firm Atomico. Silicon Valley, San Francisco and the Bay Area, boasts 1.4 unicorns per 100,000, said Guemouri, co-author of a 2020 report on European tech companies. No one can say for sure if the boom will last, though, in a country where capital gains are taxed at 30 percent and income tax can be as high as 60 percent. In 2016, Spotify said it was considering moving its headquarters out of the country, arguing high taxes made it difficult to attract overseas talent, though it hasn't done so. Sweden's digital minister Anders Ygeman said that social regulation could make it "possible to fail" and then "be up and running again" for innovators. Peter Carlsson, CEO of startup Northvolt, which makes Lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and is valued at $11.75 billion, said that ultimately success bred success. "You're really creating ripple effects when you're seeing the success of somebody else and I think that's perhaps the most important thing in order to create local ecosystems." (With inputs from agencies)

How has Sweden become the Silicon Valley of Europe despite having one of the highest tax rates in the world?

Sweden on Wednesday announced it would push for tougher sentences for younger offenders in a bid to combat a rising wave of gang violence.

The government will seek parliamentary approval to abolish the automatic reduction of sentences for defendants aged 18-20 convicted of serious crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, rape, armed robbery and gun crime, Justice Minister Morgan Johansson said.

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"It's better to try to target the crimes committed by those who do these crimes in a systematic way and live a criminal lifestyle," Johansson told a press conference.

Sweden has been struggling for several years to deal with the rise of criminal gangs and the resulting increase in fatal shootings and score-settling in an otherwise peaceful country.

Sweden has the highest number of deadly shootings per capita in Europe, according to a report published in May by the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention.&nbsp;

In 2020, the country of just over 10 million people registered more than 360 incidents involving firearms, with 47 deaths and 117 injuries.

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Most of the victims and perpetrators were under the age of 30.&nbsp;

In the latest such incident, two children, aged five and six, were wounded by stray bullets while playing in the neighbourhood of Visattra in southern Stockholm over the weekend in what is believed to have been a gang-related shooting.

In early July, a police officer was killed in a shooting in Gothenburg, although he was not believed to have been the target.

Sweden on Wednesday announced it would push for tougher sentences for younger offenders in a bid to combat a rising wave of gang violence. The government will seek parliamentary approval to abolish the automatic reduction of sentences for defendants aged 18-20 convicted of serious crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, rape, armed robbery and gun crime, Justice Minister Morgan Johansson said.

Sweden on Wednesday announced it would push for tougher sentences for younger offenders in a bid to combat a rising wave of gang violence. The government will seek parliamentary approval to abolish the automatic reduction of sentences for defendants aged 18-20 convicted of serious crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, rape, armed robbery and gun crime, Justice Minister Morgan Johansson said. Also read | 'Change spending habits': Study reveals that men are worse for the planet "It's better to try to target the crimes committed by those who do these crimes in a systematic way and live a criminal lifestyle," Johansson told a press conference. Sweden has been struggling for several years to deal with the rise of criminal gangs and the resulting increase in fatal shootings and score-settling in an otherwise peaceful country. Sweden has the highest number of deadly shootings per capita in Europe, according to a report published in May by the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention. In 2020, the country of just over 10 million people registered more than 360 incidents involving firearms, with 47 deaths and 117 injuries. Also read | Effect of fake news: Airbnb host rejects booking of couple for being vaccinated Most of the victims and perpetrators were under the age of 30. In the latest such incident, two children, aged five and six, were wounded by stray bullets while playing in the neighbourhood of Visattra in southern Stockholm over the weekend in what is believed to have been a gang-related shooting. In early July, a police officer was killed in a shooting in Gothenburg, although he was not believed to have been the target.

Sweden toughens sentences for young over gang crime rise

A pair of goals from Swedish forward Stina Blackstenius spelled catastrophe for the United States on Wednesday, as they suffered a shock 3-0 defeat in their Tokyo 2020 debut.

Fifth-ranked Sweden put the pressure on almost immediately with three shots in the first eight minutes, as the four-time Olympic gold medalists showed little sign of the stellar unbeaten run they have enjoyed since 2019.

Forward Stina Blackstenius converted in the 25th minute, rocketing a header past U.S. keeper Alyssa Naeher with an assist from Sofia Jakobsson. The goalie had five saves in the first half as a dominant Swedish forward line crashed through the Americans' defenses.

Midfielder Rose Lavelle nearly equalized with a header in minute 45 off a corner kick from Christen Press but hit the post.

The addition of veteran midfielder Julie Ertz did little to revive the U.S. in the second half, as Blackstenius again scored in the 54th minute.

The match was personal for Team USA: The Swedes knocked the four-time World Cup winners out of the tournament on penalties in the quarter-finals in 2016.

But their much-hoped-for revenge in front of 48,000 empty seats inside the Tokyo Stadium was not to be, as forward Christen Press missed a wide-open net at close range midway through the second half.

Swedish midfielder Lina Hurtig then heaped on more pain with a clinical header to give her side a three-goal cushion a minute later, ending the United States' 44-game unbeaten streak.

"We (have) developed our game and our play," Blackstenius said after the match. "We have so much quality in every player. Every player is also very different from the other."

The Rio defeat marked the U.S. team's earliest exit in Olympic history, after previously reaching the final of every edition of the Games since 1996 when the women's event was introduced.

The two sides drew 1-1 in an April friendly, the only blemish to the United States' 2021 record of 11 wins in 12 matches and a prescient warning of the challenges the team would face in their 2020 Tokyo kickoff.

The defeat was the United States' first under head coach Vlatko Andonovski, who took over from Jill Ellis in 2019.

"We played a little bit tight and just hurt ourselves a lot," said 2012 gold medallist and veteran forward Megan Rapinoe. "They took their chances, got into better space, and inevitably scored more goals."

The pandemic-postponed Games kicked off earlier Wednesday with a victory for the Olympic hosts, as Japan's softball team walloped Australia 8-1 at the Fukushima Azuma Baseball Stadium.

The United States next face New Zealand in the group stage, while Sweden play Australia, both on Saturday.

A pair of goals from Swedish forward Stina Blackstenius spelled catastrophe for the United States on Wednesday, as they suffered a shock 3-0 defeat in their Tokyo 2020 debut.

A pair of goals from Swedish forward Stina Blackstenius spelled catastrophe for the United States on Wednesday, as they suffered a shock 3-0 defeat in their Tokyo 2020 debut. Fifth-ranked Sweden put the pressure on almost immediately with three shots in the first eight minutes, as the four-time Olympic gold medalists showed little sign of the stellar unbeaten run they have enjoyed since 2019. Forward Stina Blackstenius converted in the 25th minute, rocketing a header past U.S. keeper Alyssa Naeher with an assist from Sofia Jakobsson. The goalie had five saves in the first half as a dominant Swedish forward line crashed through the Americans' defenses. Midfielder Rose Lavelle nearly equalized with a header in minute 45 off a corner kick from Christen Press but hit the post. The addition of veteran midfielder Julie Ertz did little to revive the U.S. in the second half, as Blackstenius again scored in the 54th minute. The match was personal for Team USA: The Swedes knocked the four-time World Cup winners out of the tournament on penalties in the quarter-finals in 2016. But their much-hoped-for revenge in front of 48,000 empty seats inside the Tokyo Stadium was not to be, as forward Christen Press missed a wide-open net at close range midway through the second half. Swedish midfielder Lina Hurtig then heaped on more pain with a clinical header to give her side a three-goal cushion a minute later, ending the United States' 44-game unbeaten streak. "We (have) developed our game and our play," Blackstenius said after the match. "We have so much quality in every player. Every player is also very different from the other." The Rio defeat marked the U.S. team's earliest exit in Olympic history, after previously reaching the final of every edition of the Games since 1996 when the women's event was introduced. The two sides drew 1-1 in an April friendly, the only blemish to the United States' 2021 record of 11 wins in 12 matches and a prescient warning of the challenges the team would face in their 2020 Tokyo kickoff. The defeat was the United States' first under head coach Vlatko Andonovski, who took over from Jill Ellis in 2019. "We played a little bit tight and just hurt ourselves a lot," said 2012 gold medallist and veteran forward Megan Rapinoe. "They took their chances, got into better space, and inevitably scored more goals." The pandemic-postponed Games kicked off earlier Wednesday with a victory for the Olympic hosts, as Japan's softball team walloped Australia 8-1 at the Fukushima Azuma Baseball Stadium. The United States next face New Zealand in the group stage, while Sweden play Australia, both on Saturday.

Football: Sweden's women stun U.S. with 3-0 thrashing in Tokyo Olympics opener

Sweden's ousted Prime Minister Stefan Lofven is being asked to acquire support for a government. Swedish parliament speaker Andreas Norlen said on Thursday that he asked Lofven to rally support for a government.

The move came after the leader of Sweden's largest right-wing opposition party, Ulf Kristersson, announced earlier that he was giving up on trying to secure a majority of his own.

"The parliamentary conditions to form a new right-wing government are simply not there," Moderate Party leader Kristersson told a press conference Thursday morning.

As the leader of the largest party, Kristersson was tapped by Norlen on Tuesday.

After Kristersson conceded, Norlen said he had telephoned Lofven "and given him the mission to probe the conditions to form a government that can be tolerated by parliament".

That means Lofven could potentially see a quick return to power after announcing his resignation on Monday.&nbsp; 
"My message remains that the Social Democrats and I are ready to shoulder the responsibility of leading the country forward together with other constructive forces," Lofven said in a social media post.

Unholy alliance

An "unholy alliance" of parties, from the Left Party to the far-right Sweden Democrats, teamed up to oust Lofven on June 21.

The confidence motion was filed by the Sweden Democrats after the Left Party, which had previously propped up Lofven's government, said it was planning such a motion itself in a row over housing policy.

The Left Party had been unhappy with a plan to ease rent controls for newly-built homes, a policy which proponents argue is a step towards reforming Sweden's dysfunctional housing market.

Lofven had agreed to the policy to secure the support of two other centre-left parties for his government, as part of a drawn-out struggle to find a workable coalition following inconclusive elections in 2018.

But the Left Party and other critics see any easing of the rent controls as fundamentally at odds with the Swedish social model, and a threat to tenants' rights.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Sweden's ousted Prime Minister Stefan Lofven is being asked to acquire support for a government. Swedish parliament speaker Andreas Norlen said on Thursday that he asked Lofven to rally support for a government.

Sweden's ousted Prime Minister Stefan Lofven is being asked to acquire support for a government. Swedish parliament speaker Andreas Norlen said on Thursday that he asked Lofven to rally support for a government. The move came after the leader of Sweden's largest right-wing opposition party, Ulf Kristersson, announced earlier that he was giving up on trying to secure a majority of his own. "The parliamentary conditions to form a new right-wing government are simply not there," Moderate Party leader Kristersson told a press conference Thursday morning. As the leader of the largest party, Kristersson was tapped by Norlen on Tuesday. After Kristersson conceded, Norlen said he had telephoned Lofven "and given him the mission to probe the conditions to form a government that can be tolerated by parliament". That means Lofven could potentially see a quick return to power after announcing his resignation on Monday. "My message remains that the Social Democrats and I are ready to shoulder the responsibility of leading the country forward together with other constructive forces," Lofven said in a social media post. Unholy alliance An "unholy alliance" of parties, from the Left Party to the far-right Sweden Democrats, teamed up to oust Lofven on June 21. The confidence motion was filed by the Sweden Democrats after the Left Party, which had previously propped up Lofven's government, said it was planning such a motion itself in a row over housing policy. The Left Party had been unhappy with a plan to ease rent controls for newly-built homes, a policy which proponents argue is a step towards reforming Sweden's dysfunctional housing market. Lofven had agreed to the policy to secure the support of two other centre-left parties for his government, as part of a drawn-out struggle to find a workable coalition following inconclusive elections in 2018. But the Left Party and other critics see any easing of the rent controls as fundamentally at odds with the Swedish social model, and a threat to tenants' rights. (With inputs from agencies)

Sweden's ousted PM gets feelers to form government again

Ukraine made it to the Euro 2020 quarterfinals for a second time after overpowering 10-man Sweden 2-1, courtesy of Artem Dovbyk`s last-gasp extra-time winner at Hampden Park in Glasgow.

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The Ukrainians started cautiously on Tuesday and let Sweden to pass the ball around. Despite dominating possession, Sweden didn`t pose a threat to Ukraine`s rock-solid defence with only Alexander Isak coming close to scoring with a long-range effort in the 20th minute, reports Xinhua. 
 
Andriy Shevchenko`s side showed no mercy and clinically opened the scoring seven minutes later when Andrey Yarmolenko`s shot with the outside of the boot allowed Oleksandr Zinchenko to break the deadlock against the run of play. 
 
The Swedes responded well with Ukraine goalkeeper Heorhiy Bushcan having to stretch to defuse Sabastian Larsson`s dangerous set-piece moments later. 
 
Sweden continued to attack and were rewarded with the equaliser just before the break as Emil Forsberg got enough time and space to drill the ball from 23 metres past Bushcan into the bottom right corner. 
 
After the restart, both sides came out motivated and created several chances as Serhiy Sydorchuk and Forsberg rattled the right post in quick succession. 
 
Ukraine focused on counterattacks while Sweden remained a constant menace with Forsberg hitting the crossbar from 16 metres in the 69th minute. 
 
Sweden had a golden chance to seal the deal in regulation time but Dejan Kulusevski missed the target from inside the box with only Bushcan to beat. 
 
In extra time, Sweden suffered a huge setback when Marcus Danielson was sent off in the 99th minute. 
 
Outnumbered, the Swedes defended well and hoped to take the match into a penalty shootout, but their resilience was broken in injury time as Zinchenko`s pinpoint cross into the box found Dovbyk, who nodded home the decider from close range. 
 
"Both teams played very well. It was an interesting match. Neither side wanted to lose so we got this drama at the end. With this performance and commitment, our team has deserved the love of the whole country," said Ukraine head coach Andriy Shevchenko. 
 
Ukraine will clash with England in the quarterfinal at Rome on July 3.

Ukraine made it to the Euro 2020 quarterfinals for a second time after overpowering 10-man Sweden 2-1, courtesy of Artem Dovbyk`s last-gasp extra-time winner at Hampden Park in Glasgow.

Ukraine made it to the Euro 2020 quarterfinals for a second time after overpowering 10-man Sweden 2-1, courtesy of Artem Dovbyk`s last-gasp extra-time winner at Hampden Park in Glasgow. ALSO READ: Euro 2020: Sterling, Kane vanquish Germany as England reach quarterfinals The Ukrainians started cautiously on Tuesday and let Sweden to pass the ball around. Despite dominating possession, Sweden didn`t pose a threat to Ukraine`s rock-solid defence with only Alexander Isak coming close to scoring with a long-range effort in the 20th minute, reports Xinhua. Andriy Shevchenko`s side showed no mercy and clinically opened the scoring seven minutes later when Andrey Yarmolenko`s shot with the outside of the boot allowed Oleksandr Zinchenko to break the deadlock against the run of play. The Swedes responded well with Ukraine goalkeeper Heorhiy Bushcan having to stretch to defuse Sabastian Larsson`s dangerous set-piece moments later. Sweden continued to attack and were rewarded with the equaliser just before the break as Emil Forsberg got enough time and space to drill the ball from 23 metres past Bushcan into the bottom right corner. After the restart, both sides came out motivated and created several chances as Serhiy Sydorchuk and Forsberg rattled the right post in quick succession. Ukraine focused on counterattacks while Sweden remained a constant menace with Forsberg hitting the crossbar from 16 metres in the 69th minute. Sweden had a golden chance to seal the deal in regulation time but Dejan Kulusevski missed the target from inside the box with only Bushcan to beat. In extra time, Sweden suffered a huge setback when Marcus Danielson was sent off in the 99th minute. Outnumbered, the Swedes defended well and hoped to take the match into a penalty shootout, but their resilience was broken in injury time as Zinchenko`s pinpoint cross into the box found Dovbyk, who nodded home the decider from close range. "Both teams played very well. It was an interesting match. Neither side wanted to lose so we got this drama at the end. With this performance and commitment, our team has deserved the love of the whole country," said Ukraine head coach Andriy Shevchenko. Ukraine will clash with England in the quarterfinal at Rome on July 3.

Euro 2020: Ukraine's extra-time winner knocks Sweden out

Sweden moved closer to a snap election on Monday after fruitless attempts to form a government by both the centre-left and centre-right blocs left Prime Minister Stefan Lofven until the end of the day to resign or call a national vote. 
 
Lofven lost a motion of no-confidence in parliament on June 21 after the Left Party withdrew its support, triggering frenzied talks as both the centre-left and centre-right tried to line up enough support to form a government. 
 
"The decision that will shake up Swedish politics," daily Dagens Nyheter said in its front page headline on Lofven's dilemma. "Deadlock with just hours to go," tabloid Aftonbladet said. 
 
Lofven, a former welder has headed a fragile minority coalition with the Greens since 2018, relying on support from two small centre-right parties and the Left Party to remain in power. 
 
Since then, he has been juggling the goals of the business-friendly Centre and Liberals with that of Sweden's former communist party, finally dropping the ball over reform of the highly regulated rental market. 
 
His mismatched government is a result of the rise of the Sweden Democrats, a party with roots in the far-right fringe, which is now the third biggest in parliament. 
 
The centre-right split over whether to seek a political accord with them after the 2018 elections, with the Centre and Liberals choosing to support their former rivals instead of giving the Sweden Democrats a chance to influence policy. 
 
The Liberals have now changed their minds and returned to the centre-right mainstream. 
 
But even with their support, and that of the Sweden Democrats, the Moderates - the biggest centre-right party - does not have the votes to form a government either. 
 
Lofven has until midnight tonight to either hand in his resignation to the speaker of parliament or to call a snap election. Most commentators see a vote in September as the most likely outcome. 
 
Opinion polls show a general election might not alter the make up of parliament. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Sweden moved closer to a snap election on Monday after fruitless attempts to form a government by both the centre-left and centre-right blocs left Prime Minister Stefan Lofven until the end of the day to resign or call a national vote.

Sweden moved closer to a snap election on Monday after fruitless attempts to form a government by both the centre-left and centre-right blocs left Prime Minister Stefan Lofven until the end of the day to resign or call a national vote. Lofven lost a motion of no-confidence in parliament on June 21 after the Left Party withdrew its support, triggering frenzied talks as both the centre-left and centre-right tried to line up enough support to form a government. "The decision that will shake up Swedish politics," daily Dagens Nyheter said in its front page headline on Lofven's dilemma. "Deadlock with just hours to go," tabloid Aftonbladet said. Lofven, a former welder has headed a fragile minority coalition with the Greens since 2018, relying on support from two small centre-right parties and the Left Party to remain in power. Since then, he has been juggling the goals of the business-friendly Centre and Liberals with that of Sweden's former communist party, finally dropping the ball over reform of the highly regulated rental market. His mismatched government is a result of the rise of the Sweden Democrats, a party with roots in the far-right fringe, which is now the third biggest in parliament. The centre-right split over whether to seek a political accord with them after the 2018 elections, with the Centre and Liberals choosing to support their former rivals instead of giving the Sweden Democrats a chance to influence policy. The Liberals have now changed their minds and returned to the centre-right mainstream. But even with their support, and that of the Sweden Democrats, the Moderates - the biggest centre-right party - does not have the votes to form a government either. Lofven has until midnight tonight to either hand in his resignation to the speaker of parliament or to call a snap election. Most commentators see a vote in September as the most likely outcome. Opinion polls show a general election might not alter the make up of parliament. (With inputs from agencies)

Clock is ticking for Swedish PM Lofven as snap election looms

Sweden's Prime Minister Stefan Löfven was ousted from power in a no-confidence motion over rent control. Left parties opposed his proposal to de-regulate rent amid a growing housing crisis. What is the road ahead for Sweden? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Swedish Prime Minister ousted over rent control proposal

Sweden's government has been toppled after Stefan Lofven became the country's first prime minister to lose a no-confidence vote, meaning he can now either resign or trigger a snap election.

Sweden PM Lofven loses no-confidence vote, toppling government

Sweden's government was toppled on Monday after Stefan Lofven became the country's first prime minister to lose a no-confidence vote, meaning he can now either resign or trigger a snap election.&nbsp;

The motion of no confidence passed with a majority of 181 MPs in the 349-seat parliament.&nbsp;

It was filed on Thursday by the far right Sweden Democrats (SD), after the Left Party, which has propped up the government, announced it was planning to seek support for such a motion itself to protest a government project to ease rent controls, denouncing the move as an attack on the Swedish social model.

The conservative Moderate Party and the Christian Democrats quickly announced their support for the move, thereby securing the necessary majority.

Critics described the constellation as an "unholy alliance" of parties at opposite sides of the political spectrum.

Lofven is the first head of government to lose a no-confidence vote in the country, and means the collapse of the Social Democrat and Green Party coalition minority government.

The political crisis was triggered by a project, which is still in its preliminary stages, to reform the country's rent controls and potentially open the door for landlords to freely set rents for newly constructed apartments.

Among the left the proposal has been seen as being at odds with the Swedish social model and a threat to tenants.

Last-ditch efforts to appease the Left Party, which holds 27 seats, had been in vain.

An offer to invite stakeholders in the rental market for negotiations was dismissed as "not serious and political theatre aimed at stalling the process", by Left Party leader Nooshi Dadgostar.

Lofven now has one week to decide whether to trigger a snap election, or resign which means the speaker of the parliament will start negotiations among parties to find a viable candidate for the office.

Sweden's government was toppled on Monday after Stefan Lofven became the country's first prime minister to lose a no-confidence vote, meaning he can now either resign or trigger a snap election.

Sweden's government was toppled on Monday after Stefan Lofven became the country's first prime minister to lose a no-confidence vote, meaning he can now either resign or trigger a snap election. The motion of no confidence passed with a majority of 181 MPs in the 349-seat parliament. It was filed on Thursday by the far right Sweden Democrats (SD), after the Left Party, which has propped up the government, announced it was planning to seek support for such a motion itself to protest a government project to ease rent controls, denouncing the move as an attack on the Swedish social model. The conservative Moderate Party and the Christian Democrats quickly announced their support for the move, thereby securing the necessary majority. Critics described the constellation as an "unholy alliance" of parties at opposite sides of the political spectrum. Lofven is the first head of government to lose a no-confidence vote in the country, and means the collapse of the Social Democrat and Green Party coalition minority government. The political crisis was triggered by a project, which is still in its preliminary stages, to reform the country's rent controls and potentially open the door for landlords to freely set rents for newly constructed apartments. Among the left the proposal has been seen as being at odds with the Swedish social model and a threat to tenants. Last-ditch efforts to appease the Left Party, which holds 27 seats, had been in vain. An offer to invite stakeholders in the rental market for negotiations was dismissed as "not serious and political theatre aimed at stalling the process", by Left Party leader Nooshi Dadgostar. Lofven now has one week to decide whether to trigger a snap election, or resign which means the speaker of the parliament will start negotiations among parties to find a viable candidate for the office.

Sweden's Stefan Lofven becomes country's first PM to lose no-confidence vote

Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven was hours away on Sunday from being first PM of the country to lose a no-confidence vote. His last-ditch effort to secure majority support in parliament were not successful.

The no-confidence vote was called last week for Monday but anti-immigration Sweden Democrats withdrew its support over his plan to liberalise Sweden`s rigid rent control system.

Lofven and his centrist Social Democrats have led a fragile minority government since the inconclusive elections in 2018, striking a deal on a broad reform programme with two centre-right parties.

In one of many concessions to the Liberals and the Centre Party, he agreed to submit a proposal to parliament in the autumn to abolish collective bargaining for rents for newly built apartments.

Lofven sought to soften the reform on Sunday by inviting landlords and tenant organisations for negotiations, but the Left Party dismissed that initiative as "political theatre."

"Following the notice we have received today, the Left Party will vote `red` tomorrow against Stefan Lofven," its leader Nooshi Dadgostar told a news conference.

If, as appears almost certain, Lofven loses Monday`s vote, he can either resign and let the speaker task lawmakers with trying to form a new government, or call a snap election, something that has not happened in Sweden since 1958.

(With inputs from agencies)

Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven was hours away on Sunday from being first PM of the country to lose a no-confidence vote. His last-ditch effort to secure majority support in parliament were not successful.

Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven was hours away on Sunday from being first PM of the country to lose a no-confidence vote. His last-ditch effort to secure majority support in parliament were not successful. The no-confidence vote was called last week for Monday but anti-immigration Sweden Democrats withdrew its support over his plan to liberalise Sweden`s rigid rent control system. Lofven and his centrist Social Democrats have led a fragile minority government since the inconclusive elections in 2018, striking a deal on a broad reform programme with two centre-right parties. In one of many concessions to the Liberals and the Centre Party, he agreed to submit a proposal to parliament in the autumn to abolish collective bargaining for rents for newly built apartments. Lofven sought to soften the reform on Sunday by inviting landlords and tenant organisations for negotiations, but the Left Party dismissed that initiative as "political theatre." "Following the notice we have received today, the Left Party will vote `red` tomorrow against Stefan Lofven," its leader Nooshi Dadgostar told a news conference. If, as appears almost certain, Lofven loses Monday`s vote, he can either resign and let the speaker task lawmakers with trying to form a new government, or call a snap election, something that has not happened in Sweden since 1958. (With inputs from agencies)

Sweden PM Stefan Lofven faces defeat in Monday no-confidence vote

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