The last time an empty chair was used was for the 1935 prize . Two countries that initially declined to attend now say they will . In a statement released by the Nobel committee, Sweden's Foreign Minister Carl Bildt said he hoped it would be "a sign of hope and encouragement in our efforts towards peace on earth and prosperity for all mankind@@ China created its own peace prize , which was awarded Thursday .
The last time an empty chair was used was for the 1935 prize . Two countries that initially declined to attend now say they will . The Nobel Institute director says it 's a signal to China for political reform . China created its own peace prize , which was awarded Thursday .