Middle of my term, Tobias Billström chooses to jump out of the job as foreign minister. On Wednesday, he informed Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) of his decision.
This has not been an easy decision. It's something I've thought about and processed over a period of time, says Billström.
But now it's time to move on.
Intensive years
It has been two intensive years as foreign minister.
Sweden has become a NATO member after a long and tumultuous process and has been chairman of the EU for half a year. Add to that the Israel-Hamas conflict and the war in Ukraine, which continues.
But it's not the job as foreign minister that has been grueling that lies behind his decision.
It comes with the task that it's grueling, you just have to accept it. It's no reason for me to quit, says Billström.
No surprise
His decision did not come as a surprise to Ulf Kristersson. They have had talks about the matter.
When you're thinking about things like this, the prime minister eventually becomes the only one you can discuss with. So we had meetings before I informed my resignation, says Billström.
He does not want to comment further on Kristersson's reaction.
Exactly what he said, I'll leave between us two, says Billström
"Done his duty"
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) says in a written statement that Tobias Billström has done a deed in Swedish politics that few others have.
"Tobias has done his duty with zeal. The two most recent years as foreign minister have probably been the most grueling."
The 50-year-old Billström is now leaving politics entirely.
This gives me a chance to get a fresh start in working life. Exactly what types of assignments it will be, is completely open. But I'm not unfamiliar with the business world, he says.
New ministers
For Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, it now means finding a new foreign minister by Tuesday when he will read out the government's policy statement and the names of the new ministers.
It has already been clear that Jessika Roswall (M) will also leave her post as EU minister to become an EU commissioner.
Born 1973 in Malmö.
Lives in Nacka, is married, and has two children.
Foreign minister 2022-2024.
Group leader for the Moderate Party 2017-2022.
First vice speaker 2014-2017.
Migration minister 2006-2014.
Labour market minister 2010.
Entered the Riksdag in 2002.
Master of philosophy in historical studies, Cambridge University 2001-2002.
Master of arts in history, Lund University 2002.
Source: Government
