Asian Expats in Austria | Asians in Vienna | Bilateral Relations
Austria and Asian-Pacific countries - Read the latest headlines about bilateral relations in the areas of economy, business, diplomacy, culture and tourism
“Don't Forget Your Humanity”: Hiroshima Survivor Shakes Up Vienna's Tech Scene
During an emotional event in Vienna, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Setsuko Thurlow urged young technology developers to place ethics and human experience at the heart of innovation. The newly founded “PeaceTech Alliance” now aims to put this call into action.
June 29, 2026
Takeda is Cutting up to 200 Jobs in Vienna and Putting its New Seestadt Lab on Hold
A month ago, the Japanese Embassy, the local government, and Takeda celebrated the opening of new office buildings and the partnership between the two countries. Additional projects and the expansion of Takeda's infrastructure and workforce were also underway at the same time. It was supposed to be a milestone for Austria as a hub for research and innovation, but now reality has set in: Japanese pharmaceutical giant Takeda is embarking on a massive restructuring.
June 23, 2026
Vietnam Strengthens Partnerships in Vienna: From Diplomatic Autonomy to Cybersecurity in the Digital Age
In times of growing geopolitical tensions and profound technological upheaval, Austrian institutions and Vietnam are sending a strong signal of multilateral cooperation. Through a series of high-level meetings and forums in Vienna in the spring and summer of 2026, both nations substantially expanded their bilateral relations in strategically crucial areas for the future—foreign policy, diplomatic training, and cybersecurity.
June 16, 2026
Viennese Floral Splendor in Beijing: The Belvedere Celebrates a Diplomatic Milestone with Klimt and Schiele
To mark the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Austria and China, the Belvedere in Vienna is presenting a high-profile exhibition at the Beijing World Art Museum. Under the title “Blooming Hearts Through Centuries,” 60 masterpieces of floral painting are traveling to Asia.
June 16, 2026
55 Years of Diplomatic Relations: China and Austria Reaffirm Their Strategic Partnership in the Interest of Global Stability
This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Austria. To mark the occasion, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen exchanged congratulatory messages. The anniversary coincides with a period of intensive bilateral exchanges and also marks the end of a significant diplomatic era: Chinese Ambassador to Austria Qi Mei is leaving Vienna after several years in office.
June 11, 2026
OSCE Asia Conference Calls for a Global Alliance Against Cybercrime
When hackers attack South Korea’s power grid, thousands of victims disappear into Thai human trafficking rings in Europe, or cybercriminals drain bank accounts by the second, the dark side of globalization becomes apparent: criminal networks know no borders. To respond to these sophisticated threats, Bangkok became the epicenter of the global security architecture for two days. At the 2026 OSCE Asia Conference, the OSCE and the ASEAN region moved closer together.
June 11, 2026
Diplomatic Meltdown in New York: How Germany Lost the Race for a Seat on the UN Security Council
A historic debacle for German foreign policy: In the election for non-permanent seats on the UN Security Council, Germany was soundly defeated in the very first round of voting. While celebrations are underway in Vienna, Berlin is searching for scapegoats—and in doing so, overlooking the deeper geopolitical reasons behind the global loss of trust.
June 8, 2026
55 Years of Diplomatic Relations: A Celebration of Friendship Centered on Culture and Tea
Diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and Austria are celebrating a significant anniversary this month: for 55 years now, the two countries have maintained an official and steadily growing partnership. To mark the occasion, the Chinese Embassy in Vienna hosted two high-profile events in recent days, which highlighted both political cooperation and deep cultural exchange.
May 28, 2026
Diplomatic Coup with Brunei: Vienna Bids to Host New EU-ASEAN Center Starting in 2027
Austria aims to establish its capital as a central hub for relations between Europe and Southeast Asia. On the sidelines of the 30th Wachau Europe Forum, it was announced that Vienna has officially applied to host a new, high-profile EU-ASEAN Center. The center is scheduled to begin operations in 2027. This strategic decision was also the main topic of discussion at the bilateral meeting between Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger and the Second Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam, Erywan Yusof.
May 28, 2026
A Plea for Press Freedom: The 2026 Concordia Ball Dances Against the Digital Overload
On Friday, May 22, 2026, the Vienna City Hall (Rathaus) will once again transform into the most prestigious gathering point for journalism, culture, and society. Under the central theme of "Analog Discourse," this tradition-steeped summer ball combines social-political commitment with classic Viennese ballroom elegance. In an era of disinformation and technological acceleration, the event serves as a powerful signal for the fundamental importance of the free word.
May 18, 2026
Austria Plans Military Attaché Office in Japan by 2027
As global security dynamics continue to shift toward the Indo-Pacific, Austria is taking steps to expand its international defense presence. A newly announced plan by the Austrian Armed Forces to establish a military attaché office in Japan highlights Vienna’s intention to strengthen strategic partnerships beyond Europe and engage more actively in a region of growing geopolitical importance.
May 11, 2026
New Direct Flight Between Xi’an and Vienna Officially Launched
A milestone for tourism and economic cooperation: With China Eastern Airlines’ new flight route, the former imperial city of Xi’an and the music capital of Vienna are growing closer. The launch on April 20 marks a special diplomatic anniversary.
May 2, 2026
Historic Summit in New Delhi: Austria and India Forge an “Alliance for the Future”
It is a visit of symbolic significance and economic importance: Chancellor Christian Stocker has arrived in India on an official state visit, becoming the first Austrian head of government to do so in 42 years. Together with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he sealed a strategic partnership that spans high technology, film production, and close military cooperation.
April 20, 2026
Austria Blocks Chinese JD.com’s Acquisition of MediaMarkt
From Vienna to Beijing, there is a sense of unease: Chinese giant JD.com’s investment in MediaMarkt’s parent company, Ceconomy, is facing unexpected resistance in Austria. While other EU countries are giving the green light, the Ministry of Economic Affairs in Vienna threatens to become a stumbling block. In the worst-case scenario, this could result in the closure of over 50 stores and the loss of approximately 2,000 jobs.
March 30, 2026
EU and Australia Seal a Free Trade Agreement, and Austrian Business Leaders Celebrate
After eight years of tough negotiations, a breakthrough has been achieved. The EU and Australia have agreed on a comprehensive free trade agreement. While Brussels has its sights set on raw materials for the energy transition, the Austrian business community sees massive export opportunities. But the path to final implementation remains fraught with bureaucratic hurdles.
March 26, 2026
Vienna Celebrates the First International Taijiquan Day with Chinese Ambassador Qi Mei
Hundreds of enthusiasts gathered in Vienna to mark UNESCO’s first official International Taijiquan Day. Among the guests was China’s Ambassador Qi Mei, who practiced the “24-form” alongside sports stars and members of the public, symbolizing the 55-year friendship between China and Austria.
March 24, 2026
Global Solidarity in New Delhi: Austria Focuses on “AI with a Human Face”
From digital vision to global reality: Austria signed the AI Leaders Declaration at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Secretary of State for Digitalization Alexander Pröll is thus positioning the Austrian Republic as a key player for ethical standards in an AI-driven global economy.
February 24, 2026
Austria and Pakistan Deepen Economic and Migration Partnership
In a diplomatic act that underscores both historical ties and future-oriented market interests, Austria and Pakistan have opened a new chapter in their bilateral relations. On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker welcomed Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to the Federal Chancellery in Vienna for an official state visit.
February 24, 2026
Austria's Export Economy: Getting Through the Crisis Year 2025 with a “Black Eye”
The Austrian export industry looks back on a turbulent year. As the latest figures from the OeNB export indicator for January 2026 show, nominal goods exports shrank by 0.7% in 2025 as a whole. In real terms—i.e., adjusted for price changes—the decline was slightly more pronounced at 1.4%. Nevertheless, economists are cautiously optimistic: given the global upheavals, the domestic economy has come through relatively unscathed.
February 10, 2026
Ambassador Qi Mei Promotes China at the 2026 Vienna Holiday Fair
The Vienna Holiday Fair 2026, which took place from January 15 to 18 at Messe Wien, had a special highlight this year: On Saturday, January 17, Chinese Ambassador Qi Mei visited the Chinese pavilion. Her visit focused on the massive easing of entry requirements for Austrian travelers and cultural exchange between the two nations.
January 25, 2026
Japans Nuclear Turnaround: World's Largest Nuclear Power Plant Returns to the Grid, IAEA Confirms Safety at Fukushima
Almost 15 years after the triple disaster in Fukushima, Japan is making a radical U-turn in its energy policy. While the damaged Fukushima Daiichi power plant remains a task for generations to come, the country is preparing to restart the world's most powerful nuclear power plant. This course is supported by a recent report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which gives Japan an excellent rating for its disposal of filtered cooling water.
December 22, 2025
Chinese Delegation Strengthens Economic Ties in Styria
Relations between China and Austria, particularly with the province of Styria, were further strengthened by the visit of a high-ranking Chinese delegation. Ambassador Qi Mei of the People's Republic of China in Austria led a delegation from the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Austria (VCUOe) on a study trip to the federal state.
December 15, 2025
India to Host Global AI Impact Summit 2026
India is positioning itself as a global pioneer in responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence (AI). The country will host the India–AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi on February 19 and 20, 2026. This is also being promoted by the Indian Embassy in Vienna.
November 20, 2025
Iran, China, and Russia Coordinate Ahead of IAEA Meeting
Ahead of the upcoming meeting of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, the ambassadors of Iran, China, and Russia coordinated their positions and met with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi. The meeting served as an opportunity to discuss the agenda for the upcoming meeting, which will be held at the Vienna International Center (VIC) from November 19 to 21.
November 18, 2025
Chinese Embassy in Vienna Hosts Symposium on the 80th Anniversary of Taiwan's Return
A symposium marking the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's return to China was held at the Chinese Embassy in Austria. The event, attended by Chargé d'Affaires a.i. Zheng Xuan and representatives of the Chinese community in Austria, including compatriots from Taiwan, served to reaffirm China's position on the Taiwan issue and coincided with a series of similar commemorative events in China and other embassies around the world.
November 16, 2025
STRABAG's Order Backlog Exceeds 30 Billion Mark for the First Time
The listed construction services technology group STRABAG SE reached a historic milestone in the first nine months of 2025: its order backlog rose by a remarkable 24 percent to a new record level of EUR 31.4 billion.
November 13, 2025
The Magnificent Villa Andrássy at Hohe Warte in Vienna is up for Sale for €18 Million
The Vienna real estate scene is currently being shaken up by a spectacular sales announcement: the magnificent Villa Andrássy in the exclusive Döbling cottage area, Hohe Warte, is up for sale. The asking price for the historic property, which is considered an architectural masterpiece, is €18.5 million.
November 10, 2025
Austria at the Center of a Global Surveillance Scandal Involving Celebrities, Politicians, and Red Bull Executives
An international investigation by the "Surveillance Secrets" consortium has uncovered the largest known data set in the global surveillance industry to date and shines a spotlight on the allegedly illegal activities of the Indonesian company First Wap. Over the years, thousands of people worldwide have been secretly tracked and monitored, including Austrian singer Wolfgang Ambros, Hollywood actor Jared Leto, and numerous employees of the Red Bull Group.
October 16, 2025
China's Ambassador Qi Mei Meets with Minister Hanke to Discuss Infrastructure and the Silk Road Initiative
Cooperation between China and Austria in important future-oriented areas was the focus of a meeting in Vienna between Minister Peter Hanke (SPÖ) and Chinese Ambassador H.E. Qi Mei.
October 12, 2025
Vienna, a Hub for Espionage since the Cold War
For several historical and geographical reasons, Vienna has a long and distinguished history as a center of espionage. During the Cold War, Vienna gained particular significance as a hotspot for espionage, but even after the end of the Cold War, this status has continued and has even intensified in recent years.
September 26, 2025
Austria's Meinl-Reisinger Welcomes Chinese Counterpart with Focus on Geopolitics and Trade
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Vienna to deepen bilateral relations and discuss global challenges. The meeting, which was also documented by media representatives, underscores the importance of the strategic partnership between the two countries.
September 16, 2025
Taliban Representatives Support Austria in Deportations
A delegation from the Afghan Taliban regime has held talks with the Austrian Interior Ministry in Vienna to help identify Afghans who are scheduled for deportation. The cooperation, which the Interior Ministry describes as “necessary” for the deportation of criminals, has been sharply criticized by human rights organizations.
September 11, 2025
Chinese Ambassador QI Mei Meets Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler
The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China, QI Mei, and the Austrian Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for Housing, Arts, Culture, Media, and Sport, Andreas Babler, met for bilateral talks in Vienna. The aim of the meeting was to discuss bilateral relations and other topics of mutual interest.
September 7, 2025
Bajaj-Teaser Causes a Stir: Will KTM's Future be Manufactured in India?
The relaunch of the long-established motorcycle manufacturer KTM after overcoming insolvency is being overshadowed by new uncertainties. Statements made by Rajiv Bajaj, CEO of Indian major shareholder Bajaj Auto, have sparked a heated debate about the future of the production site in Mattighofen.
September 3, 2025
Celebration of the 98th Anniversary of the Chinese People's Liberation Army at the Chinese Embassy in Vienna
A formal reception was held in Vienna to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA). The event, organized by the Chinese Embassy, brought together Ambassador Qi Mei and Defense Attaché Ji Xinqi, as well as high-ranking Austrian generals and guests from various sectors of society.
August 10, 2025
Chinese Ambassador QI Mei Strengthens Relations During Working Visit to Salzburg
China's ambassador to Austria, QI Mei, used the Salzburg Festival as an opportunity to strengthen relations between China and Austria. She paid an official working visit to the province of Salzburg, which was marked by political exchange, cultural diplomacy, and economic cooperation.
August 3, 2025
Austria's Clear Stance on Gaza: Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger Defends Call for Ceasefire
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS) has reiterated her support for a joint statement by 28 countries calling for an immediate end to the war in the Gaza Strip, declaring it to be “clear government policy.”
July 23, 2025
North Korea Appoints New Ambassador to Austria
North Korea has reportedly named veteran diplomat Kyong Hak Min as its new ambassador to Austria, a move that could see him also represent Pyongyang at international organizations in Vienna.
July 22, 2025
An Ambassador Without a State: Manizha Bakhtari's Fight for Afghan Women
Vienna's Filmcasino hosted the powerful new documentary "The Last Ambassador," spotlighting Manizha Bakhtari, Afghanistan's Ambassador to Austria. The film portrays Bakhtari's extraordinary decision to continue serving the Afghan people despite no longer representing a recognized government, offering a poignant look into her unwavering commitment in the face of her homeland's collapse under Taliban rule.
July 15, 2025
Myanmar Takes Over Chairmanship of ASEAN Committee in Vienna
Myanmar has assumed the chairmanship of the ASEAN Committee in Vienna (ACV). Ambassador Min Thein of Myanmar has pledged to continue ongoing initiatives and further strengthen the unity and commitment of the diplomatic missions of the ASEAN countries in Vienna. The handover took place during the 63rd meeting of the committee, which was chaired by Laos' chargé d'affaires in Austria, Viengxay Thammavong.
July 15, 2025
Chinese Embassy Hosts Traditional Summer Festival for China Alumni in Austria
The Chinese Embassy in Austria hosted its annual summer party for China-Alumni. Around 100 guests from various professional fields attended the event, which celebrated the deep ties and cultural exchange between China and Austria.
July 10, 2025
Chinese Ambassador QI Mei emphasizes the Role of Chinese companies in Austria
Ambassador QI Mei, China's diplomatic representative in Austria, emphasized the importance of the Chinese business community in deepening bilateral economic relations with Austria. Central to this was her participation in the 2025 annual meeting of the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Austria, which focused on close cooperation and commitment to joint development.
July 2, 2025
UNOOSA and Exolaunch Enable Satellite Launches for Bolivia, Guatemala, Jordan, and Nepal
In a move to promote equal access to space, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and Exolaunch GmbH have announced that institutions from Bolivia, Guatemala, Jordan, and Nepal have been selected to launch their CubeSats.
July 1, 2025
“Tea for Harmony” in Vienna: Chinese Embassy Invites Guests to Intercultural Tea Salon
The elegant premises of the Chinese Embassy hosted the “Tea for Harmony" Yaji Cultural Salon on International Tea Day. Around 50 guests from the worlds of politics, business, science, and culture enjoyed an evening dedicated to the millennia-old Chinese tea culture—a symbol of harmony, modesty, and exchange between civilizations.
May 29, 2025
New Natural Gas Well in Upper Austria: ADX Expands Exploration Area in Molln
The Australian-Austrian energy company ADX Energy has received approval from the Austrian authorities to significantly expand its exploration area in the Upper Austrian district of Kirchdorf an der Krems. The measure relates in particular to the so-called Welchau area in the municipality of Molln, which had already come into focus last year with an initial well.
May 23, 2025
Van der Bellen Visits Japan: Focus on Business Delegation and EXPO 2025
Austria's President Alexander Van der Bellen is currently on a state visit to Japan, accompanied by a high-ranking business delegation of around 150 people. The four-day trip - organized in close cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy and the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber - is all about deepening bilateral economic and diplomatic relations.
May 22, 2025
China's Ambassador Qi Mei Deepens Bilateral Relations with Austria
Ambassador Qi Mei used May 2025 to intensify diplomatic and cultural rapprochement between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Austria. In addition to political meetings at the highest level, important educational and cultural events also took place, underlining the efforts of both countries to strengthen their cooperation in the long term.
May 21, 2025
Thai Anantara Celebrates Debut in Austria with New Luxury Resort in Vienna
With the reopening of the Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna, the Thai hotel group Anantara Hotels & Resorts opened its first hotel in Austria in May 2025. The historic building on Schottenring, originally designed by architect Theophil Edvard von Hansen for the 1873 World Exhibition, has been extensively renovated over the past 18 months and repositioned as an urban luxury resort.
May 20, 2025
New Panda Ambassadors in Vienna: Chinas “Fluffy Diplomats” Renew Friendship with Austria
The two giant pandas “Lan Yun” and “He Feng” were officially welcomed to Schönbrunn Zoo with much media attention and political prominence. Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker, and Li Hongzhong, Vice President of the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China, participated in the ceremony - a strong diplomatic signal in a globally complex time.
May 18, 2025
UNOOSA and Singapore Agree on Cooperation in the Field of Space Law
The United Nations and Singapore have announced a new partnership under the “Space Law for New Space Actors” project. The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and Singapore's Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn) are working together to support the development of a national legal framework for space activities. This initiative aims to align Singapore's emerging space sector with international standards.
May 14, 2025
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