Dear Mr Antonov,
Thank you for your letter.
I appreciate your commitment to Saab. As you are well aware of, the Swedish
government has put a lot of effort and engagement into the automotive industry.
We have done so because this industry is important for Sweden. During the years
it has been a source of jobs and growth. We are many who find pride in Swedish
cars.
It was the awareness of how important this industry and its know-how is to
our country’s economy that made the Swedish government act so resolute when the
financial crisis struck in the fall of 2008. As the first country in Europe we
launched a special automotive package. In total SEK 28 billion was set aside.
This package, through the state guarantee for an EIB loan, made it possible for
Spyker to close the deal with General Motors and take over Saab Automobile.
A lot has happened since but Saab still faces challenges. I know that the
management in Saab work day and night to find new short- and long term
solutions. In most cases these solutions do not include the involvement of the
Swedish government, but when they have done so we have been keen to act.
No one should hesitate on the fact that I and the Swedish government are
committed to the Swedish automotive industry and that we share your engagement
in Saab. I dare say that I have given no other company my time and attention to
the same extent as Saab during my time as Minister.
As you have noticed, I will resign from my role as leader of the Centre
Party this autumn. Regarding my future as Minister, that is a decision for the
next party leader to take. I have made clear that I am prepared and willing to
continue.
Regardless of who will hold the position as Minister for Enterprise and
Energy, I can guarantee you that it will be a person who will give their full
attention to their mission. That includes giving political support to the
Swedish automotive industry and Saab.
Yours sincereley
Maud Olofsson
