"Historical events should not be judged at political level, but should be left to the parties concerned to discuss on the basis of current research," Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt said.

"The Government worked actively to make this clear to the Riksdag before the debate in the Chamber, as on previous occasions when the issue has been raised.

It should be noted that the vote went against the report of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, and that the Riksdag was not unanimous as is evident from the fact that the outcome was based on a majority of a single vote.

"Regrettably, the decision of the Riksdag will not make a positive contribution to the ongoing process of normalisation between Turkey and Armenia, in particular the establishment of a commission charged with investigating the events in 1915.

"This is a process that we have every reason to support as it will also lead to increased stability and security in the region.

"Moreover, the decision will not help the debate in Turkey, which has become increasingly open and tolerant as Turkey has developed closer relations with the European Union and made the democratic reforms these entail, said Mr Bildt.