Swedish minister rejects 'unjust' headscarf criticism

By Atila Altuntas

STOCKHOLM (AA) - Sweden's Interior Minister Anders Ygeman on Wednesday rejected criticism of a fellow cabinet member who wore a headscarf during an official visit to Iran.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Ygeman said it was unjust to attack European Affairs and Trade Minister Ann Linde.

Linde faced criticism after donning the covering while on official business in Iran this week. She was part of a Swedish delegation visiting the country at the invitation of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.

The Swedish team led by Prime Minister Stefan Lofven was in Iran to deal with bilateral relations and regional issues, focusing primarily on the crises in Syria, Iraq and Yemen plus human rights, the Swedish government said in a statement released on Tuesday.

Ygeman defended Linde and said: "It's difficult to understand the reaction of opposition party."

"It's quite humane of Linde and other female officials to wear headscarves during an official visit to Iran. It's respect for human rights," Ygeman added.

He also said the move had seen a positive reaction in the international media.