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 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
Austria Takes Position Against Russian Wagner Group
The Foreign Affairs Committee of the Austrian National Council in Parliament has unanimously supported an initiative against the activities of the Russian Wagner Group. This follows allegations that the group is involved in human rights abuses and war crimes in Ukraine and other countries. The committee calls for Austria to take action with European partners to limit the group's influence and global presence.
October 5, 2023
EU Foreign Ministers Demonstrate Solidarity with Ukraine in Kyiv
In an unprecedented act of solidarity, the foreign ministers of almost all EU states, including Austria's Alexander Schallenberg, gathered for an informal Council meeting in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv. This meeting marked the first time that such a body was held not within the EU, but in a third country. The aim was to demonstratively strengthen Ukraine's back.
October 4, 2023
Tensions Between Kosovo and Serbia: Is a New Conflict Looming?
The recent incident has renewed tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, raising fears of a possible armed conflict in the region. The situation in Kosovo appears to be calming, but the state of affairs remains incomprehensible to many.
October 3, 2023
OMV and Wood Sign Agreement to License Plastic Recycling Technology
In a move to promote the circular economy and reduce plastic waste, Vienna-based OMV and UK-based Wood have signed an exclusive cooperation agreement to commercially license OMV's ReOil technology. This agreement was reached at ADIPEC, the world's largest energy conference in Abu Dhabi, and is designed to drive progress in chemical plastic recycling.
October 3, 2023
Norway as a New Key Partner for Austria in Energy and Climate Protection
During a working visit to Norway, Chancellor Karl Nehammer emphasized Norway's key role in the fields of environment, energy technology, and climate protection. In a conversation with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Nehammer emphasized that Norway is not only an important partner but also a pioneer in environmental and energy technology.
October 3, 2023
Federation of Austrian Industries: New Divisional Managers in "Education & Society" and "International Relations & Markets
The Federation of Austrian Industries (IV) has announced personnel changes in two of its core areas. Gudrun Feucht and Igor Sekardi join in senior positions, supported by their previous roles at IV and their extensive expertise in their respective areas.
October 2, 2023
Central European Foreign Ministers of the "Central 5" Discuss OSCE, Ukraine, and Migration
The foreign ministers of the "Central 5" (C5) - Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia - met in Vienna to discuss current security policy and neighborhood issues. Host Alexander Schallenberg stressed the importance of the Organization for Security and Cooperation (OSCE) as a pan-European platform for dialogue, especially in light of the challenges posed by Russia's attack on Ukraine and the need to keep the OSCE alive. During the meeting, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijártó repeatedly irritated the participants.
October 1, 2023
Peter Launsky-Tieffenthal: The New World Special Representative of the Austrian Chancellor
Peter Launsky-Tieffenthal, former Secretary General of the Austrian Foreign Ministry, was recently appointed World Special Representative by Chancellor Karl Nehammer. His main task in this new function will be to intensify relations between Austria and the global South, especially Africa.
October 1, 2023
Austria Strengthens its Economic and Diplomatic Relations with Africa
Austria has increased its focus on its economic and diplomatic relations with Africa. The country's trade with sub-Saharan Africa amounted to 2.28 billion euros in 2022, or about 0.56 percent of Austria's total trade volume. Austrian exports to the region increased by 15.7 percent year-on-year to 1.33 billion euros. South Africa, Mali, and Nigeria were the main export markets. Read more about why Africa is important for Austria!
September 28, 2023
OSCE in Deep Crisis: Russia's Veto Paralyses Europe's Largest Security Body
The Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is facing its most profound crisis as Russian vetoes block critical decisions, endangering the stability and functionality of the world's most extensive security body. This stalemate emerges from Moscow's continued aggression towards Ukraine, exacerbating tensions between OSCE member states.
September 28, 2023
Austria Advocates Accelerated EU Integration of the Western Balkans
Austria's Minister of European Affairs Karoline Edtstadler and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg show a profound commitment to the integration of the Western Balkan countries into the European Union (EU). They recently sent concrete proposals in a letter and a "non-paper" to EU External Relations Commissioner Josep Borrell and Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhelyi. The central theme of these proposals is to accelerate the enlargement process and clarify the agenda for 2024 and beyond.
September 27, 2023
Meet the New Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the International Organizations in Vienna
Abdullah bin Khaled Tawlah, Saudi Arabia's new permanent representative, presented his credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador, Abdullah bin Khaled Tawlah, the new permanent representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the International Organizations in Vienna.
September 27, 2023
Possible Spy Ring: Ex-Wirecard Manager and Suspected Russian Spies on Trial
British investigators suspect that former Wirecard manager and Austrian Jan Marsalek was involved in a spy network acting for Russia. This information became known through a communication from the British public prosecutor's office and was later reported by BBC and "Spiegel".
September 26, 2023
Vienna Wins the "EU Organic Award": "Wiener Gusto" Named Best Organic Brand
The city of Vienna once again has a reason to celebrate. At this year's European Union Organic Awards, the city's food brand "Wiener Gusto" was named "Best Organic City". This important "EU Organic Award" was presented by the European Commission in a festive ceremony in Brussels. As a representative of the City of Vienna, Climate City Councillor Jürgen Czernohorszky proudly accepted the award.
September 26, 2023
Meet the New Permanent Observer of the European Union to the International Organizations in Vienna
Carl Hallergard, the EU's new diplomat in Vienna has the challenging task of coordinating the EU's interests within complex multilateral organizations that aim to ensure peace, stability, and democracy across its member states. Meet Ambassador, Carl Hallergard, the new permanent observer of the European Union to the International Organizations in Vienna.
September 25, 2023
FPÖ-Delegation Visits Taliban in Afghanistan
Several members of the FPÖ (Freedom Party of Austria) traveled to Afghanistan and met, among others, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The meeting became known through a press release from the Afghan Foreign Ministry, which also published a photo of the delegation.
September 25, 2023
Japanese Takeda Lays Foundation Stone for "Laboratory of the Future" in Vienna's Urban Lakeside Aspern
In a symbolic act, the foundation stone was laid for Takeda's "Laboratory of the Future" in Vienna's Seestadt Aspern. With an investment of around 120 million euros, the Japanese pharmaceutical giant represents the company's largest investment to date in Austria in a technically and ecologically optimized new building for biopharmaceutical research and development.
September 22, 2023
Austria Provides 2 Million Euros for Disaster Relief in North Africa
The suffering caused by natural disasters in Morocco and Libya has caused consternation around the world. To respond to this humanitarian crisis, the Austrian Federal Government has decided to provide two million euros from the Foreign Ministry's Foreign Disaster Fund.
September 21, 2023
Three Seas Initiative Summit Concludes with Resounding Commitments and Strong Support for Ukraine
During the 8th edition of the Three Seas Initiative Summit, the prestigious halls of the Cotroceni Palace welcomed Central and Eastern European leaders. This gathering was a demonstration of unity and determination against a backdrop of increasing geopolitical tension. On this same occasion, the President of Austria stressed support for Ukraine and the common fight against global warming.
September 20, 2023
Austria's Air Future: Embraer's C-390 Set to Replace the Stalwart C-130
In a landmark decision, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner, flanked by National Armaments Director Major General Harald Vodosek, announced the intended replacement for the Austrian Armed Forces' reliable yet aging C-130 "Hercules": the Embraer C-390.
September 20, 2023
EU-Mercosur Pact: Austria's Balancing Act between Trade Opportunities and Sustainability
The discussion about the free trade agreement between the EU and the Mercosur countries - Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay - is entering a new round. While some see the treaty as an opportunity to intensify trade between the two economic areas, others raise serious concerns about its impact on the environment and social standards.
September 19, 2023
Austrian Representatives at the UN General Assembly in New York
The UN General Assembly, which is taking place in New York this year, will see strong representation from Austria. With Federal President Alexander van der Bellen and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg at the forefront, Austria wants to convey its messages clearly.
September 19, 2023
OMV to Supply Air France-KLM 2,000 Tons of Sustainable Jet Fuel
OMV, a Vienna-based integrated company specializing in energy, fuels, and commodities, has taken a decisive step towards promoting more sustainable aviation practices. It has signed an off-take agreement to supply 2,000 tons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to Air France-KLM Group for 2023.
September 18, 2023
AACC Organised the “Ambassadors’ Meeting” at the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna
The Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC), in harmonious collaboration with the Vienna School of International Studies or Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, successfully conducted the “Ambassadors’ Meeting”.
September 17, 2023
Austrian Armed Forces Continue to Provide Protection for Embassies in Vienna
To support the police and secure embassies and other critical objects in Vienna, the Austrian Armed Forces have extended the duration of their assistance mission until March 31, 2024.
September 17, 2023
Discrimination on the Housing Market: A Growing Problem in Austria
A recent SORA study conducted on behalf of the Ombud for Equal Treatment highlights a serious problem in Austria's real estate market: racism and discrimination. People with foreign-sounding names or accents have significantly fewer chances of being invited to view an apartment compared to people with typical Austrian names.
September 14, 2023
Austria EU Representative Selmayr at Dispute Because Of "Blood Money" Statement
EU representative Martin Selmayr has called Austrian gas payments to Russia "blood money". Now reprimanded by Vienna and Brussels, EU Commission representative Martin Selmayr does not want to give up his job in Austria.
September 14, 2023
Skills Shortage in Austria: Companies Feel Pressure, But Also Opportunities
A recent study by the recruiting platform Stepstone shows that the shortage of skilled workers is leaving a clear mark on Austria's companies. Two-thirds of respondents are concerned about the additional workload caused by unfilled positions. This is despite a slight increase in advertised vacancies of 2 percent in the first half of the year, with some sectors such as engineering, care, and construction even seeing significant increases.
September 13, 2023
Historic Center of Vienna Remains on the UNESCO Red List
The historic center of Vienna remains on UNESCO's red list of endangered World Heritage Sites despite recent changes to the Heumarkt project. This was decided by UNESCO. Now it is being examined whether the project is compatible with World Heritage in this way.
September 13, 2023
Austria's Former Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl: From Lebanon to St. Petersburg - with Ponies in her Luggage
Karin Kneissl, the former Austrian foreign minister, has become a major figure on the international stage in recent years. Her latest move has now seen her relocate to Russia, more precisely to St. Petersburg.
September 12, 2023
19th Salzburg Europe Summit 2023: "Europe: Setting out for New Horizons"
From September 24 to 26, 2023, the Institute of the Regions of Europe (IRE) invites you to the 19th Salzburg Europe Summit at the Salzburg Congress. More than 700 participants from all over Europe are expected to discuss together the current challenges and opportunities of the continent.
September 12, 2023
Austrian Army Modernizes its Tank Fleet in Germany
In the presence of the Minister of Defense, Klaudia Tanner the first "Leopard" main battle tank from Wels was handed over to the European armaments company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter Defence Systems (KNDS). The aim of this initiative is to modernize the tank so that it meets current technological and military requirements.
September 11, 2023
Green Peak Festival 2023: Austria's Pioneer for Climate Protection and Entrepreneurship
The renowned Green Peak Festival, which has established itself in the heart of Vienna as Austria's flagship event for sustainability and entrepreneurship, impressed once again. For the second year in a row, over 800 participants gathered to network, exchange ideas and discuss the latest developments in sustainability. The project was supported this year by the Embassy of Israel.
September 11, 2023
Austria's Foreign Cultural Conference 2023: A Look into the Past and the Future
The Austrian Foreign Ministry is celebrating a special anniversary. For 50 years, half a century, it has represented Austria's cultural heritage and current artistic developments abroad. At this year's Foreign Cultural Conference reception, the focus was not only on the past but above all on the future.
September 10, 2023
OSCE Chairman Osmani and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov Held a Critical Telephone Call About the OSCE
Since February 24, 2022, stress and depression have increased significantly in the OSCE. This is because the most important political decisions in the OSCE require the consent of all 57 governments. However, this consensus rule is blocked mainly by Russia, which severely limits the organization's ability to act. OSCE Chairman-in-Office Bujar Osmani, who is also the foreign minister of North Macedonia, had a critical telephone conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
September 7, 2023
Austria's Ex-Economy Minister Schramböck in Saudi Arabia: Progress on Women's Rights and Economic Opportunities
The former Austrian Minister of Economy, Margarete Schramböck, has given insights into her new professional activities in Saudi Arabia in an interview with the magazine "trend". She is currently on the board of Aramco Digital, a digital subsidiary of Saudi Aramco, the world's largest oil company, which was founded in spring 2023. Schramböck plays an important role there, which she describes as "between the executive board and the supervisory board."
September 7, 2023
Meet the Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative of The Netherlands to the United Nations in Vienna
Peter Potman, Dutch Ambassador and Permanent Representative, presented his credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador, Peter Potman, the new permanent representative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the International Organizations in Vienna and Ambassador to Austria.
September 6, 2023
Israeli Ambassador Received Federal Association Medal for Services to the Jewish Community in Austria
In a moving ceremony, Israeli Ambassador Mordechai Rodgold was awarded the "Great Golden Medal of Honor" by the Federal Association of Jewish Communities in Austria. This honor not only marked a remarkable recognition of his work but was also the first time that an Israeli ambassador was awarded this medal. In the presence of leading community representatives and dignitaries, the award ceremony became both an emotional farewell and a celebration of the close ties between Ambassador Rodgold and the communities in Vienna and throughout Austria.
September 6, 2023
Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog Visited Austria
During an official visit to Vienna, Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog praised Austria's determined fight against anti-Semitism. Herzog stressed that the Austrian government's "uncompromising fight against anti-Semitism" should serve as an "example" for other countries. He expressed his appreciation for this stance, which is highly appreciated in Israel. During a joint press conference with Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, Herzog also stressed the importance of remembering the Holocaust, addressing the deep scars of that terrible time.
September 5, 2023
Austria's Ambassadors' Conference 2023 Under the title "Austria's Eyes and Ears in the World"
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg opened this year's Foreign Ministry Ambassadors' Conference, which is taking place this week in Vienna. The week-long conference brings together the heads of Austrian embassies and permanent representations to deepen mutual exchange and intensify cooperation with their colleagues in Vienna.
September 5, 2023
Austria Signs Strategic Partnership for Food Aid
In the midst of global humanitarian challenges and in view of the increasing need for international food aid, Minister of Agriculture Norbert Totschnig signed a landmark three-year Strategic Partnership for Food Aid together with Ute Klamert, Associate Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). This significant agreement was sealed on the sidelines of the European Forum Alpbach in Tyrol and is intended to help address the current global food crisis.
September 4, 2023
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