STOCKHOLM, Sept. 6 (Xinhua) -- Margot Wallstrom will soon step down as foreign minister and resign from government, according to an announcement made in a government press release issued Friday afternoon.
"I have devoted myself wholeheartedly to the task of making Sweden secure, respected in the outside world and appreciated as a partner. To meet with others the great challenges of our time. It's time for me to spend more time with my husband, my children and my grandchildren," said Wallstrom.
Wallstrom has been foreign minister in Stefan Lofven's government for the past five years.
"These five years have been revolutionary in world politics," Prime Minister Lofven told Swedish news SVT on Friday afternoon.
"In this troubled world, Wallstrom has always stood up for equality, for diplomacy and peace. I think that is an explanation for her being so well-liked and respected -- both in Sweden and in the world," the prime minister continued.
Wallstrom's resignation means that Lofven needs to find a new head of department. When asked by Swedish news DN who might be replacing her in the position of foreign minister, Wallstrom declined to speculate.
"I am so happy that I neither need to nor will answer that question," said Wallstrom. "I put that warmly in the hands of the prime minister," she added.
