Sweden has rejected Austria's attempt to block Turkey's membership talks with the European Union, Radio Sweden reported on Monday.

EU Foreign ministers spent eight hours Sunday trying to get Austria to withdraw its demand that associate membership be an alternative.

Commenting on the discussions, Swedish Foreign Minister Laila Freivalds said there was very little movement, adding that Austria will have to withdraw their demands.

In an interview with Swedish Radio News, Freivalds called the Austrian position strange, since it is obvious the aim of the talks is Turkish membership in the EU.

Talking to the TT news agency, the foreign minister said there are 24 countries against 1, and she added the one standing alone should listen to what the rest have to say.

Source: Xinhua