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Austria - International Political News
Read the latest headlines about developments in Austrian foreign politics with reference to the international interest
Wiiw Forecast: Central and Eastern Europe Remain on Solid Growth Path Despite Trump’s Tariffs
Despite mounting global trade tensions, Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe (CESEE) economies are set to maintain strong growth in 2025, according to the latest Spring Forecast published by the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies (wiiw). The report highlights the region’s resilience in the face of U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist policies and broader global uncertainties.
Yesterday
Nuclear Dispute: Iran Urges Talks with Europe - Vienna and Oman as Key Factors
In the struggle to save the international nuclear agreement with Iran, Tehran wants to seek a meeting with the European signatory states before a possible new round of talks with the USA. According to diplomats, such a meeting could take place soon if the planned round of negotiations with the United States comes to fruition. In the meantime, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has called on Iran to explain suspicious facilities near its suspected nuclear sites.
April 28, 2025
The Western Balkan Mafia and its Operations: Vienna's Most Dangerous Shadow War
It is a hidden war that has long since left its mark in the heart of Vienna: The merciless power struggle between the Kavač and Škaljari clans, two of the most powerful drug cartels in Europe, is shaking not only their home country of Montenegro but also Austria and the rest of the world. One of Europe's most wanted criminals from these cartels has vanished into thin air. Austria is determined to track him down.
April 28, 2025
Russian Court of Appeal Confirms Billion-Dollar Fine Against Raiffeisen Subsidiary
A Russian appeals court in St. Petersburg has confirmed the decision of a court of first instance, according to which the Russian subsidiary of Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI), AO Raiffeisenbank, must pay over two billion euros to the Cypriot company Rasperia Trading Limited. However, this could also mean two exemptions at the same time - and one of them in Austria.
April 24, 2025
Rosenkranz Meets Orbán in Budapest: Political Rapprochement Causes Criticism
National Council President Walter Rosenkranz (FPÖ) has made an official visit to Budapest and met with Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and other leading representatives of the right-wing nationalist governing party Fidesz.
April 23, 2025
Strengthening the Economic Bridge Between China and Austria at the 15th Investment Seminar in Vienna
The 15th seminar on “Austria as an investment location” took place in the Austrian capital in the context of growing economic ties between China and Europe. The event was organized by the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Vienna, under the direction of Ambassador Qi Mei. The high-caliber event brought together representatives from Austrian federal authorities, economic institutions, and federal states as well as numerous executives from Chinese companies operating in Austria.
April 21, 2025
Austria Backs Multilateralism and Calls for Strengthening of International Cooperation in Vienna
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger opened the constituent meeting of the Council for Austrian Integration and Foreign Policy (RIA) in Vienna. In her speech, she emphasized the central role of multilateral organizations such as the EU, the UN, and the OSCE in ensuring security and stability in the face of global tensions.
April 17, 2025
Austria Wants to Attract U.S. Researchers to Europe as a Science Location
In view of drastic cuts in research funding by the US government under President Donald Trump, the American scientific landscape is currently experiencing considerable turbulence. This development offers European countries, especially Austria, the opportunity to attract highly qualified researchers and strengthen their own research location.
April 17, 2025
OSCE Secretary General Emphasizes Central Role of the Organization for Europe's Security at Antalya Diplomacy Forum
At this year's Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) was the focus of numerous discussions on the future of the European security architecture. The Secretary General of the OSCE, Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, emphasized the importance of the organization as a platform for dialogue, stability, and multilateral cooperation.
April 17, 2025
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi Visits China
During a week-long visit to China, Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), achieved significant progress in enhancing cooperation between the IAEA and China. The discussions focused on promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy, supporting sustainable development in the Global South, and advancing innovative nuclear technologies.
April 15, 2025
India's Finance Minister Visits Vienna to Intensify Trade and Economic Partnership
The visit of Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to Vienna marks a significant step towards deepening bilateral relations between Austria and India. The talks with Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger and Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer focused on strengthening economic cooperation, particularly in the areas of digitalization, green technologies, and the exchange of skilled workers.
April 15, 2025
Tri-national Military Exercise in Austrian Allentsteig with Almost 1,000 Swiss Soldiers
The multinational military exercise “TRIAS25” began at the Allentsteig military training area in Lower Austria. Around 1,300 soldiers from Switzerland, Germany, and Austria will be training together until May 9. The exercise aims to strengthen the interoperability of the armed forces and test new operational concepts.
April 15, 2025
OMV Stops Fuel Procurement from Serbian NIS due to U.S. Sanctions
The Austrian oil, gas, and chemicals group OMV has stopped purchasing fuel from the Serbian energy company Naftna Industrija Srbije (NIS) due to the threat of U.S. sanctions. NIS is majority-owned by the Russian companies Gazprom Neft and Gazprom.
April 10, 2025
U.S. Tariffs Cause Tensions: Austria between Willingness to Negotiate and Strong Response
Transatlantic economic relations are once again being put to the test. Following the US decision to impose import tariffs on European products - particularly steel, aluminum, and a range of industrial goods - under former President Donald Trump, the EU has responded with a second package of sanctions. Stakeholders in Austria are also taking a clear stance - between calls for diplomacy and calls for consistency.
April 9, 2025
Voices from Vienna Against Republika Srpska Leaders Amid Constitutional Crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina
In an unprecedented diplomatic move, Austria and Germany have imposed targeted travel bans against three high-ranking officials from Republika Srpska (RS) – including RS President Milorad Dodik – accusing them of endangering the constitutional integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). Meanwhile, the OSCE condemned legislative and institutional moves undermining BiH’s sovereignty and legal structure as well as assuring the organization's support for stability in the region.
April 9, 2025
Economic Dialogue with a Signaling Effect: China and Austria Intensify Cooperation
Economic relations between the People's Republic of China and Austria have taken a significant step forward. The focus was on the official visit of a high-ranking Chinese business delegation led by Ren Hongbin, President of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), accompanied by intensive talks with political decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and institutions in Vienna.
April 7, 2025
China's Ambassador QI Mei in Dialogue with Austrian Parliamentary Leadership
The Chinese Ambassador to Austria, QI Mei, held important diplomatic talks with leading representatives of the Austrian Parliament to further deepen bilateral relations between China and Austria. Within a few days, the Ambassador held talks with the two top representatives of the Austrian legislature - National Council President Dr. Walter Rosenkranz and Federal Council President Dr. Andrea Eder-Gitschthaler.
April 6, 2025
Strengthening Neighbourly Ties: Swiss Ignazio Cassis Receives Austrian Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger
Despite a time of increasing geopolitical challenges, the traditional neighborly dialogue between Switzerland and Austria is gaining importance. Against this backdrop, a bilateral working meeting took place in Bern between Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger and her Swiss counterpart, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis. The meeting aimed to deepen existing relations and discuss joint solutions for current political and security policy issues.
April 6, 2025
Polish Diplomats Discuss New Geopolitical Reality at Conference in Vienna
Under the title “European Security in the New Geopolitical Reality”, political and diplomatic representatives, as well as experts, gathered to discuss Europe's security policy challenges in times of global upheaval. The conference, organized by the Polish Embassy in Vienna and the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM), sent a strong signal about the need for a common European course.
April 2, 2025
India and the IAEA Intensify Cooperation: Focus on Nuclear Energy for Development and Health
During a high-level visit to India, Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is strengthening cooperation with New Delhi in the areas of nuclear energy, training and the fight against cancer. A new hub for cancer treatment, a course in nuclear technology, and a clear geopolitical signal are the focus.
April 1, 2025
Vienna as a Safe Haven for Ukrainian Corruption Suspects
In recent years, Vienna has become a preferred retreat for Ukrainian citizens who are wanted in their home country on corruption charges. Among them are high-ranking personalities such as the former head of the National Bank, Kyrylo Shevchenko, a former deputy minister, the chairman of a state-owned arms company, a former member of parliament, and several oligarchs. Austria's cautious extradition practice compared to countries such as Germany or Poland contributes to this trend.
March 31, 2025
Hope for De-escalation: Iran and IAEA Continued Talks on Nuclear Program
A new attempt to revive cooperation between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) gives cause for hope. A meeting in Vienna between IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi marks a potential turning point in an increasingly tense geopolitical conflict over Iran's nuclear program.
March 31, 2025
Austria Wants to Join the UN Security Council: Meinl-Reisinger Launches Campaign in New York
Austria's Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS) has launched the official campaign for Austria's candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027/28 in New York. She used emphatic words to call for the preservation of the rules-based international order and campaigned for Austria's renewed entry into the most powerful body of the United Nations.
March 26, 2025
Russian Espionage Affair in Austria: A Targeted Disinformation Campaign in the Heart of Europe
Austria is once again at the center of an espionage scandal: The Directorate for State Security and Intelligence (DSN) has uncovered an extensive Russian disinformation campaign aimed at manipulating public opinion in favor of Russia and to the detriment of Ukraine.
March 24, 2025
Steve Witkoff: From Real Estate Mogul to US Envoy to the Middle East
Steve Witkoff, US special envoy to the Middle East, has played a crucial role in brokering the Gaza ceasefire and peace talks on Ukraine, while also negotiating with Russia on Ukraine's future. Steve Witkoff, a lawyer and developer, has a strong bond with President Trump, dating back nearly four decades.
March 23, 2025
Iran Demands Conditions for Nuclear Negotiations With the USA
The Iranian government is prepared to accept the negotiations on its nuclear program offered by US President Donald Trump but has set clear conditions regarding the sanctions against the Iranian economy, society, and the state itself.
March 23, 2025
UN High Commissioner Volker Türk: Israel's Settlement Construction in the West Bank Condemned as a War Crime
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has sharply criticized Israel for accelerating settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian territories and described it as a war crime. A recent report by his office documents numerous violations of international law by Israel. “The transfer of parts of its civilian population into the territory occupied by Israel is tantamount to a war crime,” explained Türk.
March 18, 2025
Visit to Kyiv by Austrian Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger Reaffirms Solidarity With Ukraine
Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger traveled to the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, with a clear message of support. There, she met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other high-ranking government representatives to reaffirm Austria's solidarity and diplomatic long-term support in the fight against the Russian war of aggression.
March 17, 2025
UNODC Reports That Opium Prices in Afghanistan Reach Historic Highs
The price of opium in Afghanistan soared to $750 per kilogram in 2024, marking a tenfold increase compared to the $75 per kilogram price in 2022 before the country’s de facto authorities imposed a strict drug ban. This data comes from a new report released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
March 14, 2025
Vienna as a UN Location More Important Than Ever: Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger Reaffirms Austria's Commitment
Vienna is considered one of the most important UN locations in the world. Austria's Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger visited the Vienna International Centre (VIC) to emphasize the importance of the UN headquarters for Austria and the international community. In talks with high-ranking UN representatives, she reaffirmed Austria's support for multilateral cooperation and the rules-based world order. But what specific tasks does the UN perform in Vienna and why are they more urgent than ever today?
March 13, 2025
Japan Business Talk: Lower Austria Prepares for Expo 2025 in Osaka
Lower Austria is intensifying its economic relations with Japan: At the “Japan Business Talk” event, high-ranking representatives from politics, science, and business discussed the opportunities and challenges of cooperation. The background to this is the upcoming business delegation trip to Expo 2025 in Osaka-Kansai.
March 12, 2025
Sweden Takes Over Chairmanship of ICMPD: New Impetus for European Migration Policy
The Kingdom of Sweden has officially taken over the chairmanship of the steering group of the International Center for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) for the year 2025. The handover ceremony occurred at the Swedish Permanent Representation in Brussels, where Migration Minister Johan Forssell took over from Greece. Sweden will play a central role in shaping European migration policy by assuming the presidency.
March 12, 2025
ICMPD Director General Meets Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister
Michael Spindelegger, Director General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), met with Ukrainian Vice Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov to discuss enhanced cooperation. Key topics included support for Ukrainian refugees, the work of the newly established Ministry of National Unity, and ICMPD’s role in migration policy.
March 11, 2025
Russian Ambassador Lyubinsky Sharply Criticizes Austria
The Russian Ambassador to Austria, Dmitry Lyubinsky, delivered a speech before the members of the "Society for Friendship with Austria" (ROO). The event, originally intended to promote cultural and civil society exchange, turned into a sharp political reckoning with the Austrian government.
March 11, 2025
Innovative Solutions for Inclusive Employment and ICT: The Zero Project Conference 2025 in Vienna
The future of inclusion and accessibility is being shaped by innovation and collaboration. In an increasingly digitalized world, ensuring equal opportunities for people with disabilities has become a crucial global priority. The Zero Project Conference 2025, held at the United Nations Office in Vienna with over 120 sessions and 360 speakers, served as a platform for exchanging ideas, presenting pioneering technologies, and fostering global partnerships to drive change.
March 10, 2025
Progress and Deadlocks: 63rd Round of the Geneva International Discussions
The 63rd round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) took place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. Under the leadership of the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and the European Union (EU), representatives of various conflict parties gathered to discuss security issues and humanitarian concerns in the region. While some progress was made, key topics remained unresolved due to diplomatic tensions.
March 10, 2025
Meet the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the Republic of Austria
With the appointment of Dr. Gürsel Dönmez as the new Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Austria, an experienced political associate of Erdogan takes up his post in Vienna. He presented his credentials to Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and officially began his mission in Austria.
March 6, 2025
Beate Meinl-Reisinger: Austria's New Voice in World Politics
The inauguration of Beate Meinl-Reisinger as Federal Minister for European and International Affairs marks the beginning of a new era in Austrian foreign policy. The long-time NEOS leader takes over the prestigious ministerial office in the newly formed federal government under Chancellor Christian Stocker (ÖVP). This government formation also marks a historic first: for the first time in Austria's history, the liberal NEOS party is represented in the federal government.
March 4, 2025
Alexander Schallenberg's Farewell from Politics: “There Can not be a Perpetrator-Victim Reversal”
After almost six years in government, Foreign Minister and two-time interim chancellor Alexander Schallenberg (ÖVP) is leaving the political stage. In a farewell interview, he talks about his time in office, the geopolitical challenges under Donald Trump, and his plans for the future.
March 4, 2025
UN in Vienna Warns: Europe Poorly Prepared for Dangerous Synthetic Drugs
The rapid spread of synthetic drugs poses a growing threat to public health and is fundamentally changing global drug black markets. The United Nations International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) in Vienna warns in its latest annual report that Europe is ill-prepared for this danger and that a coordinated, determined strategy is needed to combat the threat.
March 4, 2025
Trump Appoints Real Estate Agent Arthur Graham Fisher as New US Ambassador to Austria
Before taking office, US President-elect Donald Trump announced the appointment of Arthur Graham Fisher as the new US ambassador to Austria. Fisher, a successful real estate agent from North Carolina, is primarily known for his work in the real estate industry and has no diplomatic experience. The appointment has therefore provoked mixed reactions.
March 3, 2025
Taiwan Representation in Vienna Calls for International Support against Beijing's Isolation Tactics
Taiwan is under constant pressure from China. In addition to threatening military gestures, Beijing is increasingly relying on hybrid warfare to isolate the island republic internationally. A recent incident in which a Chinese ship is believed to have severed an undersea cable between Taiwan and the Penghu Islands highlights the vulnerability of the global communications infrastructure.
February 28, 2025
OSCE Secretary General Reaffirms Support for Ukraine During Kyiv Visit
The Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, recently visited Kyiv to reaffirm the organization's commitment to supporting Ukraine amid the ongoing war. Over the course of his two-day visit, he held high-level discussions with Ukrainian officials, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and the OSCE’s role in addressing the humanitarian and security challenges facing the country.
February 25, 2025
Russia's Ambassador to Austria Dmitry Lyubinsky Calls for New Security Architecture for Europe
In a recently published article, the Russian ambassador to Austria, Dmitry Lyubinsky, sharply criticized Western reporting on the Ukraine conflict and emphasized the need for sustainable peace solutions. But to what extent do his statements stand up to critical scrutiny?
February 25, 2025
Three Years of Resistance: Ukraine’s Call for Global Support in Vienna
As the world marks three years since the start of the large-scale conflict in Ukraine, discussions on global engagement and support remain highly relevant. The "March of Light 2025" in Vienna aims to acknowledge the ongoing situation and provide a platform for those who wish to express solidarity. This article explores the significance of the gathering, its symbolic aspects, and its broader implications for international cooperation and stability.
February 24, 2025
Chinese Ambassador Qi Mei Visited Styria: Deepening Bilateral Relations
The Chinese ambassador to Austria, Qi Mei, paid a working visit to Styria. Her visit focused on meetings with Governor Mario Kunasek and Provincial Parliament President Gerald Deutschmann, during which the positive developments in Styrian-Chinese relations.
February 24, 2025
Austria Strengthens Commitment to IAEA in Tackling Nuclear Security Challenges
Austrian Chancellor and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg met with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to discuss pressing global nuclear issues. Their talks covered Iran’s nuclear program, security risks in Ukraine, and the IAEA’s role in international disarmament efforts.
February 23, 2025
Schallenberg Reaffirms Strong Support for Ukraine on War’s Third Anniversary
On the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Austrian Chancellor and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg underscored Austria’s unwavering support for Ukraine. During a visit to the Ukrainian Saturday School in Vienna, he expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian community and reiterated Austria’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty.
February 23, 2025
Austrian National Council President Discusses Ukraine Crisis with Deputy Chairwoman of the Verkhovna Rada
Ahead of the winter session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, Austrian National Council President Walter Rosenkranz met with Olena Kondratiuk, Deputy Chairwoman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine and Austria’s humanitarian assistance. The meeting focused on the broader implications of Russian aggression, Austria’s role in supporting Ukraine within the limits of its neutrality, and the challenges of post-war reconstruction.
February 19, 2025
German Election and AfD in the Wake of a Donation Scandal from Austria
The German parliamentary elections are approaching, and yet another donation scandal is rocking the Alternative for Germany (AfD). The focus is on millions of euros that are said to have flowed from Austria - in some cases in a questionable manner. While the Austrian authorities are investigating the suspicion of money laundering, the question arises as to what extent actors from the Alpine country are influencing the German election campaign.
February 19, 2025
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