Saudi King receives two letters from Swedish top leaders

JEDDAH, March 28 (KUNA) -- Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz a letter from Sweden King Carl XVI Gustaf asserting on the strong bilateral ties and keenness to continue such distinguished relations.
Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported that the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques also received another letter from Sweden Prime Minister Stefan Lofven, expressing sorrow and regret regarding the recent diplomatic row between the two countries.
Lofven also stressed in his letter his personal regret particularly to the interpretation of any act or statement issued by the Swedish government and misunderstandings that might be considered any form of humiliation to the Saudi Kingdom or Islam, stressing his government's interest and desire to strengthen and maintain relations between the two kingdoms.
The premier underlined King Salman's clear role in protecting Islam and all sacred sites.
Lofven also expressed concerns by his government on the recent diplomatic row but noted that they are looking forward to welcoming the return of the Saudi ambassador to Stockholm and begin to work together to strengthen ties between the two kingdoms.
The two letters were delivered in a meeting between with the Saudi monarch by Sweden Special Envoy and Former Defence Minister Bjorn Gustaf von Sydow.
Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia recalled its ambassador from Sweden after Wallstroem made comments regarding a court verdict against Raef Badawi.
The kingdom considered her comments as interference into the kingdom's internal affairs prohibited by international law and diplomatic norms. (pickup previous) nh.mb