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Vienna's Foreign and Bilateral Relations
Read the latest headlines about bilateral relations in the areas of economy, business, diplomacy, culture and tourism between Austria and its partners
Austria and Slovenia Support Moldova's EU Aspirations
In a remarkable gesture of solidarity and commitment to European integration, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar recently visited Moldova and met with President Maia Sandu.
November 17, 2023
Kosovo's Challenges and Progress under Prime Minister Albin Kurti
The head of government of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, was a guest at the Renner Institute in Vienna to talk about the challenges facing his country. Under the title "Kosovo: The young democratic state as a pawn of geopolitical interests", he not only took stock of his time in government so far in conversation with Director Maria Maltschnig but also explored the question of how his country can survive amidst the conflicting interests of geopolitical players.
November 16, 2023
Uncovering of Money Laundering and Real Estate Fraud in Austria and Cyprus
New leaks have uncovered a complex network of opaque asset transfers centered around Russian oligarchs and Austrian real estate. According to the investigative project "Cyprus Confidential", Austrian real estate is particularly popular with wealthy Russians. Around 40 Cypriot companies own real estate in Vienna, often penthouses in expensive locations.
November 16, 2023
Wien Energie Builds a New Large Heat Pump for a Climate-Friendly District Heating Supply
Wien Energie has announced the construction of a new large-scale heat pump at the Spittelau waste incineration plant, which will increase the plant's efficiency by 13 percent and supply 16,000 households in Vienna with district heating from 2025. This third large-scale heat pump in Vienna is a significant step towards the city's climate targets, which aim to be climate-neutral by 2040.
November 16, 2023
Herbert Kickl and the FPÖ: Propagating "Fortress Austria"
Herbert Kickl, the chairman of the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), is already in an election campaign mood and reiterated his critical stance on migration and asylum policy in Austria and Europe at a press conference. In clear terms, he called for an "asylum stop" and the implementation of a "Fortress Austria". His rhetoric was aimed at a strict demarcation policy and an election victory.
November 15, 2023
Skopje Hosts OSCE Youth Forum: A Convergence of Young Innovators and Parliamentarians
The OSCE 2023 Chairpersonship, led by North Macedonia, hosted a pivotal Youth Forum in Skopje, focusing on integrating youth perspectives into security, with an emphasis on entrepreneurial and innovative solutions for fostering peace, dialogue, justice, trust, and reconciliation.
November 15, 2023
ODIHR and OSCE Combat Hate Crime and Promote Tolerance
In light of a worrying rise in hate crimes, particularly against Jewish and Muslim communities, the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is intensifying its efforts to counter this trend.
November 13, 2023
Austria Intensifies its Fight Against Anti-Semitism: New Legal Reforms and Culture of Remembrance
On the occasion of the Remembrance Day of the November protests and at a time of global unrest and growing anti-Semitic tendencies, Austria has taken decisive steps to intensify the fight against anti-Semitism. This commitment manifests itself in a series of initiatives ranging from the reform of existing laws to the promotion of an active culture of remembrance.
November 13, 2023
OPEC Secretary General Al Ghais Advocates for Increased Oil Production Amidst Global Energy Transition
In a recent op-ed and public statement, OPEC Secretary General, His Excellency Haitham Al Ghais, presented a compelling argument for the necessity of oil in today's world, even as global energy transitions are underway.
November 13, 2023
Austria's Engagement in the Middle East: Solidarity with Israel and Support for Palestine
Amid the tense situation in the Middle East, Austria has reaffirmed its solidarity with Israel and at the same time pledged humanitarian aid for the Palestinian civilian population.
November 12, 2023
China and OPEC Cement Economic Ties for a Sustainable Energy Future
In a landmark progression for global energy relations, China and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) have significantly deepened their partnership, moving from a historical ideological alliance to a robust economic collaboration. This shift is set to have far-reaching implications for market stability and the sustainable development of the global energy sector.
November 9, 2023
Austria and Czech Republic for European Stability and Security
During a pivotal meeting in Vienna, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and his Czech counterpart Jan Lipavský showcased a united front on several critical international issues.
November 8, 2023
Austria Under Observation: New Online Tool Uncovers Deficits in Human Rights Policy
A new online monitoring tool, developed by the Austrian League for Human Rights in cooperation with the Austrian Ombudsman Board, marks a turning point in the monitoring of the human rights situation in Austria. It reveals the areas in which the country has some catching up to do in terms of human rights, including in the international arena, such as Austrian development aid.
November 8, 2023
Vienna Mutfluencer Project: An Example of European Solidarity Awarded the Citizens' Prize
In a time of global challenges, the Viennese social project "Mutfluencer*innen" has received significant recognition for its commitment by being awarded the European Citizen's Prize 2023. The initiative, which was launched in the summer of 2021, aims to empower young people - especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds - to face the challenges of crises, isolation, and fears for the future.
November 7, 2023
"Peace" Exhibition at the Jewish Museum Vienna: A Sign of Hope in Times of Conflict
In the heart of Vienna, the Jewish Museum Vienna, part of Wien Holding, is opening an exhibition dedicated entirely to peace - a bold statement at a time when the echo of war can be felt both in Israel and in Europe. Under the honorable patronage of Federal President Dr. Alexander Van der Bellen, the exhibition will be presented to the public at the Museum Judenplatz.
November 7, 2023
Rene Benko and the Future of the Signa Group: Silence Before the Storm?
The Austrian Signa Group once celebrated as a shining star in the real estate sky and a powerful player in the retail sector, is currently facing uncertain times and financial turbulence. Company founder Rene Benko, who has led the group from a non-operational position since 2013 and holds the majority of voting rights through his family foundations, is at the center of a heated debate about the group's future.
November 6, 2023
Austria Chancellor Nehammer on the Phone with Palestinian President Abbas
In a telephone conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer expressed his concern about the current tensions in the Middle East. The conversation was made particularly urgent by the current hostage-taking of innocent civilians by Hamas, an organization classified as a terrorist group by the EU, including an Austrian citizen.
November 6, 2023
Austria and the UK Join Forces Against Illegal Migration
A new era of cooperation in the areas of security and migration policy between Austria and the UK was heralded when the Home Secretaries of both countries, Gerhard Karner and Suella Braverman, signed an agreement to combat cross-border crime. This took place during the British Home Secretary's working visit to Vienna, where in-depth discussions were held on the bilateral relationship and the strengthening of internal security.
November 5, 2023
Austria Backs Microelectronics: Three billion Euros Investment and AT&S Lighthouse Project
The Austrian government has made a firm commitment to support the microelectronics industry with three billion euros of investment over the coming years. These bold investments will help to promote the research and development of semiconductor companies in Austria and strengthen the foundations for digitalization, green energy transition, and sustainable growth.
November 2, 2023
Austria's Rejection of UN Resolution Raises Questions Within the Government
Austria voted against a resolution in the UN General Assembly calling for an immediate ceasefire and improvement in the humanitarian situation in the Middle East. The decision, made by the ÖVP-led government, has caused tensions within the coalition, especially with the Green coalition partner, which has distanced itself from the decision.
November 1, 2023
Discussion on European Elections 2024 with Prominent Guests
In Vienna, a significant event was held at the House of the European Union to kick off the 2024 European elections. Among the renowned speakers were Dr. Othmar Karas, First Vice President of the European Parliament, Dr. Thomas Zehetner from WWF, and Dr. Clemens Pig from the Austria Press Agency (APA). The discussion focused on four central topics: Democracy, Climate Protection, Digitalization, and Education. In parallel, the new initiative "gemeinsamfuer.eu" was presented.
October 30, 2023
Ukraine Will Block Gas Transit: Challenges and Opportunities for OMV and Europe
Ukraine's decision to stop transiting Russian natural gas to the West from 2025 poses a significant challenge for OMV and for several European countries. The announcement, made by the head of Ukrainian energy company Naftogaz, Olexiy Chernyshov, raises several questions about energy security and dependence on Russian gas.
October 29, 2023
Austria's Commitment to International Peace Missions Remains Upright
On National Day, the Council of Ministers announced an important decision: The foreign deployments of the Austrian Armed Forces will be further extended. With this decision, Austria underscores its commitment to stability, security, and peace in various crisis regions around the globe.
October 29, 2023
Austria's National Day: A Look Back and an Appeal for the Future
On October 26, Austria celebrates its National Day, a date deeply rooted in the country's history and at the same time an opportunity to look to the future. The day marks the anniversary of the proclamation of perpetual neutrality in 1955, a pivotal moment in Austria's postwar history. But what does this day mean to the people of Austria and how does it connect to the challenges of the present?
October 26, 2023
Austria's Schengen Veto Dominates Meeting Between Austria's Nehammer and Bulgaria's Denkov
A significant meeting took place in Vienna between Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer and Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov. The talks focused on Austria's persistent Schengen veto, which currently prevents an expansion of the Schengen area to include Bulgaria and Romania.
October 25, 2023
Meet the Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the United Nations in Vienna
Mukhtar Tileuberdi, Kazakhstan's Ambassador and Permanent Representative, presented his credentials to Austria's Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and the Director-General of the United Nations Office in Vienna, Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador, Mukhtar Tileuberdi, the permanent representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the International Organizations in Vienna and Ambassador to Austria.
October 24, 2023
APG Invests Nine Billion Euros in Austria's Electricity Grid
Austrian Power Grid (APG) has unveiled an ambitious €9 billion investment program designed to lay the foundation for a supply-secure energy transition in Austria. The company, a subsidiary of Verbund AG, thus plays a central role in the transformation of the Austrian energy supply system.
October 24, 2023
Austria Takes Over Chairmanship of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region
November 1, 2023, marks the beginning of an important phase for Austria as it takes over the presidency of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR). This key region, which stretches from the Black Forest to the Black Sea and encompasses around 115 million people, faces a multitude of challenges. The country is taking over this task from Slovenia and will be in charge until December 31, 2024.
October 24, 2023
Wien Energie Strengthens Independence By Reducing Russian Gas
With the start of the heating season in Vienna, ushered in by a sudden drop in temperatures after an unusually warm start to October, the essential issue of energy supply security is once again coming to the fore. In light of ongoing geopolitical tensions, Wien Energie, Austria's largest energy supplier, has taken proactive measures to secure heating supplies for the coming winter while reducing dependence on Russian natural gas.
October 22, 2023
Drastic Increase in Anti-Semitic Incidents in Austria
In recent days, the Anti-Semitism Reporting Office of the Vienna Israelite Community (IKG) has noted a worrying increase in anti-Semitic incidents in Austria. This is directly related to the devastating attacks on Israel by Hamas, in which more than 1,400 people have been killed and over 200 kidnapped, while thousands of rockets have been fired at Israel.
October 22, 2023
Vienna's Mayor Establishes "Council of Religions" to Foster Interfaith Dialogue and Peace
Vienna's Mayor, Michael Ludwig, convened a significant meeting at the cityhall, bringing together representatives from diverse religious groups in response to recent developments in the Middle East. These events underscore the vital role of religious tolerance and understanding in maintaining peaceful coexistence in society.
October 19, 2023
Austria's Growing Potential: MCF Energy's Welchau Gas Prospect
Austria could be on the verge of a breakthrough in its quest for energy security with the announcement of further developments regarding the Welchau gas prospect. MCF Energy Ltd. has confirmed plans to commence drilling at the Welchau site in Austria during Q4 2023.
October 18, 2023 · Updated: October 18, 2023; 20:00
Berlin Process Summit in Tirana: Western Balkans on the Way to the EU
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg attended the Berlin Process Summit in Tirana on behalf of Chancellor Karl Nehammer. The necessary reforms and progress in the EU enlargement of the six Western Balkan states were discussed. Foreign Minister Schallenberg again advocated his model of gradual integration.
October 18, 2023
Austria Introduces Border Controls at Czech Border
In a remarkable reaction to Germany's decision to introduce stationary border controls at its borders with the Czech Republic, Poland, and Switzerland, Austria has announced that it will also introduce controls at its border with the Czech Republic. This step is intended to combat illegal migration and smuggling activities.
October 17, 2023
Potential Consequences of a Russian Nuclear Test
In a recent development, Russia is on the brink of withdrawing its support for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). This decision has sparked intense discussions about the potential for Russia to conduct a nuclear test, creating significant ripples in the global security landscape. The prospect of Russia conducting such a test has prompted deep concerns among experts and policymakers.
October 17, 2023
Italy Takes Austria to the European Court of Justice over Transit Measures
The ongoing controversy over transit measures on the Brenner route reached a new level of escalation when the Italian government decided to take Austria to the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
October 16, 2023
France's Plea for an Independent Europe: Ambassador Gilles Pécout for Strategic and Global Sovereignty of the EU
In an interview with the "Kronen Zeitung", the French ambassador in Vienna, Gilles Pécout, promoted the strategic and global sovereignty of the EU. He stressed that the EU is an ally of the USA, but not China's enemy.
October 16, 2023
Austria Discusses Sustainable Development: 3rd SDG Dialogue Forum Austria
The 3rd SDG Dialogue Forum Austria has now taken place in the Sofiensälen in Vienna. The meeting was organized by the Austrian Federal Administration, SDG Watch Austria, and the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens. The agenda focused on the implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations by 2030.
October 15, 2023 · Updated: October 16, 2023; 12:49
Fulbright Scholars and Gilman Scholars: Exchange, Knowledge and Connection
U.S. Ambassador Victoria Kennedy opened the doors of her residence to welcome returning Austrian Fulbright Scholars, newly arrived U.S. Fulbright students and scholars, board members, program partners, distinguished alumni, and also the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program.
October 15, 2023
Othmar Karas' Reckoning with the ÖVP
For about 25 years, Othmar Karas, the first vice president of the EU Parliament, was a weighty member of the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) in the European context. His withdrawal from the EU election and the associated clear criticism of his party caused a political stir in Austria.
October 12, 2023
How is the Salary Landscape in Austria: A Clue by the Stepstone Salary Report 2023?
Salary discussions are often taboo, yet they play a central role in the world of work and significantly influence the decisions of both employees and companies. The Stepstone Salary Report 2023 emerges as a crucial resource to shed light on salary structures and dynamics in Austria.
October 12, 2023
Austria Intensifies Vigilance of Israeli Facilities in Wake of Hamas Attack
Amid an escalating Middle East conflict and subsequent massive military clashes between Israel and the terrorist organization Hamas, Austria's Interior Minister Gerhard Karner has ordered increased surveillance of Israeli facilities in the country. The measure is aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens and facilities that could potentially be targeted for attacks.
October 11, 2023
German Car-Sharing Company Under Suspicion in Vienna for Million Euro Fraud
In a sensational move, police authorities in Germany and Austria have launched extensive investigations into a German car-sharing company, overshadowed by a blatant suspicion of multimillion-dollar parking fee fraud. The investigations are targeting the company's directors and involve alleged offenses such as gang crime, fraud, and document forgery.
October 11, 2023
Evacuation Flight for Austrians from Israel: Austrian Government and Armed Forces Respond to Security Situation
Due to the ongoing tense security situation in Israel, which has led to numerous airlines suspending their connections to the country, the Austrian government has decided to take evacuation measures for its citizens.
October 10, 2023
Future of the Western Balkans in the EU: Rapprochement Despite Tensions
In recent years, the Western Balkans have increasingly become the focus of EU accession talks. The Berlin Process, a 2014 initiative of the German government, created a format that promotes regional cooperation in the Western Balkans and supports the countries' rapprochement with the EU.
October 10, 2023
Russia Reconsiders Nuclear Weapons Test Ban: CTBTO Expresses Concerns
In a recent development, Russia is preparing to revoke its ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). However, according to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, Russia will only conduct a nuclear test if the United States does likewise. Russia signed the CTBT in 1996 and ratified it in 2000.
October 10, 2023
EX-FPÖ Defense Minister Herbert Scheibner: Shadow Diplomacy in Syria and Iran
In the summer of 2019, when Syria's President Bashar al-Assad was acting with extreme brutality against the rebels in Idlib, former FPÖ Defense Minister Herbert Scheibner went on a trip to Syria. He met high-ranking representatives of the Assad regime in Damascus and later visited the Iranian ambassador in Vienna. But what drove Scheibner to these meetings?
October 9, 2023
Austria Reacts to Hamas Attack: Solidarity with Israel and Concern about Iran
Amid the tense situation in the Middle East, the Iranian ambassador was summoned to the Foreign Ministry in Vienna. Austria strongly condemned the official Iranian reaction to the attack on Israel by the Hamas terrorist organization. The Foreign Ministry stressed that Austria categorically rejects any questioning of Israel's right to exist and will consistently act against any form of anti-Semitism in the future.
October 9, 2023
Louise Bourgeois: Unwavering Resistance at the Belvedere
At the Belvedere Museum, the exhibition is dedicated to the renowned artist Louise Bourgeois and was opened with a festive vernissage. Present were the French ambassador Gilles Pécout, the general director of the Belvedere Stella Rollig, and the curators Sabine Fellner and Johanna Hofer.
October 8, 2023
Construction Stop of "High Speed 2" in Northern England: Austrian Companies Affected
The surprising halt to the construction of part of the major British project, the "High Speed 2" (HS2) high-speed rail line, is causing discussion among the companies involved. Austrian companies in particular, which are involved in the rail project worth billions, could be affected.
October 5, 2023