On his second day in office as Sweden's Prime Minister, Fredrik Reinfeldt presented his cabinet of ministers and declared that the new four-party alliance government will "renew Sweden." Speaking to the parliament Friday, Reinfeldt, 41, said that for the first time in 25 years the country enjoys a majority government that has a broad political agenda and will "listen to all citizens."
The greatest surprise came from the appointment of Carl Bildt as Foreign Minister. Bildt served as Sweden's Prime Minster from 1991 to 1994.
"Sweden shall practice a more active foreign policy and take greater responsibility for human rights, freedom, safety, democracy, welfare and more sustainable development in the world," said Reinfeldt.
Despite the stability of the Swedish economy, the former government's inability to handle rising unemployment has become a prominent concern for Swedes. The new government has promised to create more job and business opportunities.
In order to stimulate economic activities, corporate taxes will be reduced and laws simplified making hiring new employees, especially the younger generation, easier and less costly.
Reinfeldt wants his administration to reduce bureaucracy, reform the social security system and take advantage of what he calls "the diversity of individuals."
"We shall reform the social security system to encourage employment and increase stability in the public finances," said Reinfeldt.
On the European front, the new Prime Minister said that Sweden shall play a key role in Europe, have a humane refugee policy, and be a sanctuary for those who flee from persecution and oppression.
"The right to refugee status shall be defended, and the development towards tightly closed borders in Europe shall be counteracted. One of every five Swedish residents have a foreign background. Immigrants shall not be discriminated against as a homogeneous collective," said Reinfeldt.
Sweden is renowned for its welfare state. Political observers said that Swedes choice of a new government implies a longing for changes after 12 years under the previous administration.
The former social democratic government has been criticized for negligence during the 2004 tsunami catastrophe that claimed the lives of over 540 Swedes and left thousand stranded in Thailand immediately after the disaster.
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