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Austria - International Political News
Read the latest headlines about developments in Austrian foreign politics with reference to the international interest
Austria and Italy Chief Diplomats Visit Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Foreign Ministers of Austria, Alexander Schallenberg, and Italy, Antonio Tajani, undertook a joint trip to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, to support the country in its efforts to join the EU. This trip underlines the continued commitment of the European Union, in particular Austria and Italy, to the integration of the Western Balkans into the EU.
March 5, 2024
Austrian Diplomacy in Crossfire: Schallenberg's Journey Through the Middle East
In the shadow of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which reached a new level of escalation following the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7, 2024, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg embarked on a significant diplomatic mission. His trip, which lasted three days, took him through Israel, the Palestinian territories, Jordan, and finally Lebanon - all hotspots in a region marked by political tensions and humanitarian crises.
March 4, 2024
Meet the New Permanent Representative of North Macedonia to the International Organizations in Vienna
Pajo Avirovic, North Macedonia's new permanent representative, presented his credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador, Pajo Avirovic, the new permanent representative of the Republic of North Macedonia to the International Organizations in Vienna.
February 28, 2024
Vienna Hosts Meetings for Belarusian Opposition Leader
In a diplomatic engagement, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg welcomed Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the Belarusian opposition leader, for a pivotal discussion in Vienna. This meeting, which took place within the framework of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, brought the key figure of the Belarusian opposition to Vienna to address the OSCE and the European Community under the symbolic presence of the Austrian and EU flags.
February 28, 2024
Two Years of War in Ukraine: Solidarity and demands for peace from the international community in Vienna
Two years after the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the international community remains alarmed and united in its support for Ukraine. The ongoing violence against civilians, including children, and Russia's violation of international human rights norms have sparked concern and outrage around the world. The OSCE and international representatives have spoken out strongly, calling for an end to the war.
February 26, 2024
Increased Security Cooperation Between Austria and Romania
In a sign of solidarity and joint commitment to peace and security in Europe, Austrian Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner received her Romanian counterpart Angel Tîlvăr for bilateral talks in Vienna.
February 25, 2024
EU Strengthens Multilateral Diplomacy in Vienna Amid Global Challenges
In a move to bolster multilateral diplomacy and cooperation, the Ambassadors to the Political and Security Committee (PSC) of the Council of the European Union embarked on a significant visit to Vienna. This visit underscores the European Union's aspirations to strengthen its role in the global multilateral and security order, particularly at a time when the world is grappling with multiple crises.
February 22, 2024
Decline in Frozen Russian Assets in Austria
The significant drop in the volume of frozen Russian assets in Austria, as observed over the past year, mirrors a broader trend seen in other countries, where the handling and status of these assets have been dynamic and subject to legal, political, and financial considerations.
February 21, 2024
Austria and USA Launch New Exchange Program for Young Professionals and Students
In a new step to deepen transatlantic relations, Austria and the United States have launched a new Working Holiday Program (WHP) that offers young people from both nations the opportunity to experience each other's culture, everyday life, and the working world.
February 21, 2024
Escalation after Navalny's Death: Diplomatic Aftermath Between Austria and Russia
The death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has not only caused international outrage but has also led to a diplomatic dispute between Austria and Russia. An investigation into Navalny's death amidst unjust imprisonment has been also requested by the OSCE in Vienna.
February 20, 2024
Austrian International Military Cooperation in Jordan: Focus on Gender Issues
The Austrian Armed Forces, in cooperation with the armed forces from the Netherlands and Canada and the organization "UN-Women", have launched the first "Advanced Gender Focal Point Course" in Amman, Jordan.
February 17, 2024
Austria's Foreign Minister Schallenberg Criticizes Italy's Transit Lawsuit
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg has sharply criticized Italy after the country decided to take legal action against Austria's Alpine transit regulations before the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
February 17, 2024
Austrian Politician and Doctor Pamela Rendi-Wagner in the Race for the Head of the ECDC
The former leader of the Austrian Social Democratic Party (SPÖ) and qualified doctor Pamela Rendi-Wagner is facing a potential new challenge in her career. She is on the shortlist for the position of head of the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), an important EU authority based in Stockholm.
February 15, 2024
Austrian Alevi Leader Arrested in Türkiye
In a disturbing incident, Mehmet Ali Çankaya, the former president and current honorary president of the Federation of Alevi Communities in Austria, was detained at Istanbul airport during a private visit to Türkiye and subjected to hours of interrogation.
February 13, 2024
Austria Plans to Withdraw from Russian Gas Contracts
In a decisive step against continued energy dependence, Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) announced that she would end the gas supply contracts between OMV and the Russian company Gazprom. The contracts, which run until 2040 and oblige Austria to purchase significant quantities, are under critical review. Gewessler commissioned the Economic Research Institute (WIFO) to carry out a detailed analysis of the economic consequences of termination and the risks of continued dependency.
February 12, 2024
International Observers: Lack of Political Alternatives in Presidential Elections in Azerbaijan
International observers have found that the early presidential election in Azerbaijan lacked genuine political pluralism due to a restrictive environment. Russia has sharply criticized the OSCE mission for its lack of understanding of election monitoring.
February 11, 2024
Russia Refuses OSCE Observer's Invitation to Presidential Elections
The Russian Federation's decision not to invite observers from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) to the upcoming presidential elections has been met with deep regret by the leaders of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA).
February 11, 2024
Malta Supports Ukraine as OSCE Chairperson-in-Office
On his first visit abroad as Chairman of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Malta's Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, Ian Borg, met with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv. This meeting marks a crucial moment in the efforts to achieve peace and security in the war-torn region.
February 8, 2024
Austria and Montenegro Strengthen Relations: EU Accession by 2028 in Sight
During an official visit to Vienna by Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović, Austria's Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen emphasized the importance of Western Balkan integration into the EU, with Montenegro leading the way. Given the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, a "realistic prospect of accession" for these countries is now "more important than ever".
February 8, 2024
Social Affairs Minister Rauch Backs Social Justice at UN Commission in New York
At this year's session of the UN Commission for Social Development in New York, Austria's Minister of Social Affairs, Johannes Rauch, emphasized the global importance of social justice for social cohesion.
February 7, 2024
IAEA Chief Underlines in Ukraine: "No Room for Complacency"
The IAEA Director General and his team of experts traveled to Kyiv and to the south to visit the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant. During the critical visit to Ukraine, Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), met with high-ranking Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Energy Minister German Galushchenko.
February 6, 2024
Order of Malta Strengthens Diplomacy for Humanitarian Aid
A major international conference in Rome, attended by the Sovereign Order of Malta's Ambassador to the Republic of Austria, H.E. DI Sebastian Prince von Schoenaich-Carolath, has strengthened the role of the Order of Malta's diplomatic service in the international community. The event included an audience with Pope Francis and provided a platform for exchange on ways to intensify international cooperation.
February 6, 2024
Africa Day 2024: Austria Looks to Africa's Future Markets
This year's Africa Day was all about Africa's future markets and offered a platform to strengthen economic relations between Austrian and African companies. Organized by the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ), the event attracted more than 1,200 participants from Austria, over 30 African countries, and guests from Europe, Asia, and the USA.
February 5, 2024
Austria-Ghana: New Embassy and Strengthened Partnership
In the spirit of deepening bilateral relations, Austria and Ghana have reaffirmed their desire to intensify economic and political cooperation. At an official meeting in Vienna, Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and his Ghanaian counterpart Nana Akufo-Addo emphasized the planned opening of an Austrian embassy in Accra later this year as a symbolic step towards promoting bilateral relations.
February 5, 2024
Austrian Foreign Minister Schallenberg Thanks Descendants of Nazi Expellees for Regaining Austrian Citizenship
Together with the President of the Jewish Community Vienna, Oskar Deutsch, the Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg presented the new publication "Wir und Österreich - Austria and us". This moving publication tells the stories of 15 descendants of victims of National Socialism who share their memories, feelings, hopes, and expectations in connection with regaining Austrian citizenship.
February 4, 2024
Exciting Race for EU Mandates: Austria's Parties in Starting Position
Austria's political landscape is gearing up for an exciting election year, starting with the election of EU representatives in June. The Neos were recently the last of the parliamentary parties to complete their list of candidates and their election program, marking the official start of preparations for the EU elections. Despite this great start to the campaign, the rise of right-wing populist parties in Europe and the troubled relations between the EU and Russia will make the EU elections even more complicated.
January 31, 2024
OPEC Fund: A Record Year for Development and Sustainability
The OPEC Fund for International Development has had an unprecedented year as the institution stepped up its global development assistance efforts, committing a record-breaking US$1.7 billion to 55 projects worldwide. These funds, designed to address the challenges of climate change, support the energy transition, and strengthen social and economic resilience, mark a turning point in the Vienna-based Fund's efforts to promote sustainable growth worldwide.
January 30, 2024
Austria's Ministry of Defense Warns of Global Risks
In a time of global uncertainty, the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defense has presented the "Risikobild 2024 - World out of joint". The presentation at the Raiffeisen Forum, led by Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner, aimed to shed light on the security policy challenges at the national and international level for the coming twelve to 18 months.
January 29, 2024
Austria Suspends Payments to UNRWA After Allegations of Hamas Involvement
Austria has suspended its payments to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) following serious allegations. It is alleged that employees of the organization may have been involved in a terrorist attack by Hamas on 7 October. The Austrian government is calling for a comprehensive and swift investigation into these allegations by UNRWA and the United Nations. Payments to UNRWA will remain suspended until full clarification and clarity on the consequences.
January 29, 2024
Malta Embarks on OSCE Leadership with Security and Resilience at the Forefront
Malta has officially taken the helm of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) for the year 2024, under the leadership of Ian Borg, the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade. At the inaugural session of the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna, Borg laid out Malta's ambitious agenda aimed at enhancing security and bolstering resilience across the OSCE's expansive region, amid complex global challenges.
January 28, 2024
Saudi Arabia Allows Alcohol Sales to Foreign Diplomats for the First Time
In a significant change to its long-standing policy, Saudi Arabia has decided to allow the public sale of alcohol to "non-Muslim diplomats". This marks a historic departure from the country's strict alcohol ban.
January 25, 2024
Intensive Diplomatic Activities of the Iraqi Foreign Minister in Vienna
Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein held a series of significant meetings during his official visit to Austria aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and discussing key regional challenges.
January 24, 2024
Israel's Ambassador to Vienna, David Roet, on Current Challenges in Austria and the EU
David Roet, Israel's ambassador to Austria, has been actively involved in the public debate since his arrival and is committed to solidarity with Israel.
January 23, 2024
New Year's Reception of the Austrian Federal President for the Diplomatic Corps
In a speech during the New Year's reception for the diplomatic corps, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen emphasized the need to create a more peaceful and just world. In a world marked by crises, natural disasters, and wars, he called for unity and dialog.
January 23, 2024
Cyprus Takes Over the Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation
On the international stage, Cyprus has now assumed the Chairmanship of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Cypriot Foreign Minister Dr. Constantinos Kombos opened the meeting in Vienna and outlined Cyprus' priorities for his term.
January 22, 2024
Intercultural Achievement Award 2024 of the Austrian Foreign Ministry
The Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs invites organizations from Austria and abroad to apply for the Intercultural Achievement Award 2024. This prestigious award, now in its eleventh year, recognizes outstanding intercultural and interreligious projects that contribute to global dialogue and mutual understanding. The deadline for project proposals is March 17, 2024.
January 18, 2024
DHK New Year's Reception 2024: Business and Politics in Dialog
The traditional New Year's reception of the German Chamber of Commerce in Austria (DHK) took place in Graz, set against the historic backdrop of the auditorium of the Old University.
January 17, 2024
Belarus Refuses OSCE Observation of Parliamentary Elections
The Belarusian authorities have decided not to invite observers from the OSCE to the upcoming parliamentary and local elections. This decision contradicts Belarus' international commitments and highlights concerns about the transparency and democratic standards of the elections.
January 16, 2024
Secret Meeting to Plan Mass Displacement in Germany: The Role of the Austrian Martin Sellner
A secret meeting held in a hotel near Potsdam last November brought together high-ranking AfD politicians, neo-Nazis and wealthy entrepreneurs. The meeting aimed to discuss a plan to expel millions of people from Germany. Among those present was Martin Sellner, a well-known far-right activist from Austria and former spokesperson for the Identitarian Movement Austria.
January 10, 2024
Political Thriller Around the Abramovich Villa in Austria
The sale of a villa on Lake Fuschl to Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich's family in Salzburg has been revealed to have disappeared. The property was acquired through an offshore letterbox company and a British trustee. The Green Party is now calling for the sale to be reversed, requiring a trust deed. The party is seeking clarification on how the sale can be reversed without the deed.
January 9, 2024
UNOOSA Calls for Increased Efforts to Combat Space Debris
Aarti Holla-Maini, the Director of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, is calling on governments and industry to accelerate voluntary guidelines for the sustainable use of outer space. With the increase in rocket launches and satellites, there is growing concern about the risk of dangerous collisions and the creation of space debris.
January 8, 2024
Alarming Number of Abducted Children in the Ukraine War
The Ukrainian government has made alarming statements about the abduction of children in the war against Russia.
January 8, 2024
Malta Assumes OSCE Chairmanship Under Challenging Circumstances
At a time of global tension and uncertainty, Malta will assume the Chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) on 1 January 2024. Malta's Foreign Minister Ian Borg expressed a deep sense of responsibility for this new role, especially in light of the ongoing complex and critical security challenges.
January 4, 2024
UNOOSA Launches "Space Bridge" to Promote Global Space Dialogues
The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) has launched the "UNOOSA Space Bridge" under the leadership of Aarti Holla-Maini. This project was presented at the World Space Forum in Vienna and aims to strengthen global dialog to promote local action. The initiative aims to promote international expertise through targeted exchange programs and connect isolated areas of work.
January 2, 2024
Austria Considers Entry Ban for Violent Israeli Settlers
In a noteworthy development, Austria is considering a travel ban on violent Israeli settlers, Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg has announced. This follows moves by the US as well as Germany and France, which are discussing similar measures.
December 27, 2023
Austrian Foreign Minister Schallenberg's Pioneering Visits to Senegal and South Africa
In an unprecedented diplomatic mission, Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg was the first Austrian official to visit Senegal and South Africa, setting new impulses in Austrian-African relations and opening the 31st Austrian Cultural Forum in Pretoria.
December 20, 2023
Evolution of Serbian Elections: From Socialist Yugoslavia to Democratic Transition
The history of elections in Serbia, particularly during and after World War II, is a compelling illustration of the nation's political evolution. Read more about the history and the recent election in Serbia!
December 19, 2023
International Observers Highlight Concerns in Serbia's Early Parliamentary Elections
In Serbia's early parliamentary elections, held amidst a politically and socially divided landscape, international observers have raised significant concerns about the fairness and integrity of the electoral process. The OSCE and the European Parliament expressed their criticism. The elections were marked by overwhelming advantages for the ruling party and the dominant involvement of the President, overshadowing the technical efficiency of the voting process.
December 19, 2023
Russian Oligarch Oleg Deripaska Sells STRABAG Shares to Russian Corporation
The Russian oligarch and major shareholder of STRABAG, Oleg Deripaska, has initiated a sale of his considerable stake in the Austrian construction group to a Russian joint stock company.
December 19, 2023
Ukraine Removes Raiffeisen Bank International from the List of "War Sponsors"
The Ukrainian government has temporarily removed Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI) from the controversial list of "war sponsors". This step follows intensive bilateral talks and consultations with representatives of the European Commission. RBI, which was previously criticized for its business activities in Russia and the recognition of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics by its Russian subsidiary, is now no longer suspected of supporting the Russian war of aggression.
December 17, 2023
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