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Vienna International Community - Top Diplomats - Latest Headlines
Read updated news about key diplomats in Vienna's international community,e.g. changes in diplomatic personnel in Austria & at Austrian representations abroad
Meet Israel's Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Vienna
David Roet, Israel'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, David Roet, the permanent representative of the State of Israel to the International Organizations in Vienna and Ambassador to Austria.
January 22, 2024
Promotion of Democracy in the Age of AI by the U.S. Embassy in Vienna
The U.S. Embassy in Austria, in cooperation with the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (BMEIA), recently hosted renowned AI ethics and policy expert Merve Hickok for an important dialog on global challenges. This initiative is part of the "U.S.-Austria Citizen Dialogue on Global Challenges".
January 22, 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
Jonas Kaufmann and Elisabeth Engelbrechtsmüller-Strauss Awarded the French Legion of Honor
The awards of the French Legion of Honor to Jonas Kaufmann and Elisabeth Engelbrechtsmüller-Strauss underline the importance of their artistic and business activities. Kaufmann's contribution to the world of opera and music and Engelbrechtsmüller-Strauss' successful management of an international technology group as well as her social commitment reflect France's appreciation of outstanding achievements in culture and business.
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
25th Savaball: A Celebration of Serbian Culture at the Vienna Hofburg
The 25th anniversary of the Savaball at the Vienna Hofburg will be a great celebration of Serbian culture and tradition. With high-caliber guests from politics and show business, international artists, and a social commitment, the ball promises to be a great celebration of Serbian culture and tradition.
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
Karl von Habsburg Calls for Decisive Action in Speech on the Future of Europe
Karl von Habsburg, President of the Pan-European Movement Austria, used the annual "Speech on the Future of Europe" to address important European policy issues. The motto of the online matinee was "Courage to take responsibility".
January 11, 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
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
French-Austrian Cultural Exchange: Costa-Gavras Honors Vienna with an Inspiring Visit
Vienna was enriched by a visit from the renowned Franco-Greek director Costa-Gavras. Accompanied by his wife Michèle, the award-winning cineaste enjoyed a day full of cultural highlights in the Austrian capital. The visit concluded with a meeting between Costa-Gavras and leading representatives of the Austrian film at the French Embassy.
December 27, 2023
Eurobarometer Survey: Growing EU Support in Austria
A recent Eurobarometer survey reveals a remarkable trend: support and a positive image of the European Union (EU) have increased in Austria and across Europe. According to Martin Selmayr, Head of the European Commission Representation in Austria, the mood towards the EU in Austria is "better than often assumed."
December 26, 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
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
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
Austria's Engagement in Palestine: New Security Measures and Humanitarian Support
Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg set an example for humanitarianism by meeting a group of Austrian-Palestinian dual nationals who were recently evacuated from the Gaza Strip. This meeting, which took place at the Foreign Ministry, allowed the Minister to learn first-hand about the difficult conditions in the Gaza Strip and the challenges of the evacuation operation.
December 14, 2023
Vienna Forum Discusses New Standards for Afghanistan's Future: Focus on Inclusive Peace and Women
At the recent civil society forum held in Vienna ahead of the "3rd Vienna Conference for a Democratic Afghanistan", representatives of the Afghan diaspora from nine European countries met to discuss perspectives for the future of Afghanistan. The Vienna Institute for International Dialogue and Cooperation (VIDC) hosted this important conference.
December 7, 2023
Strengthening Transatlantic Relations: USA and Austria Engage in Strategic Dialogue
The United States and the Republic of Austria held their annual strategic dialogue in Vienna to deepen bilateral cooperation and emphasize shared values.
December 6, 2023
Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce Hosts Libyan Delegations for Industry and Digital Transformation Talks
In a series of significant events, the Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC) in Vienna, Austria, played host to high-level delegations from Libya, focusing on industrial development and digital transformation.
December 5, 2023
Austria-Arab Business Dialogue: Increased Cooperation and Innovation
The 13th edition of the Arab-Austrian Business Forum, which took place in Vienna, impressively demonstrated the growing importance of cooperation between Austria and the Arab countries. The forum, organized by the Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC) and the Vienna Economic Chamber (WKW), brought together over 200 participants from various countries, including high-ranking ministers and business people.
December 4, 2023
Historic INTERPOL Meeting in Vienna Ends with Call to Fight Organized Crime
INTERPOL's 91st General Assembly in Vienna, held to mark the organization's 100th anniversary, ended with an urgent call to tackle the growing threat of transnational organized crime. The so-called "Vienna Declaration" outlines five priority measures to better support law enforcement agencies worldwide in the fight against this challenge.
December 3, 2023
European Dissonance at OSCE Meeting in Skopje: Meeting between Schallenberg and Lavrov
At the annual meeting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in Skopje, a growing dissent among European states regarding the Ukraine crisis was revealed. While several EU states, including Ukraine, Poland, and the Baltic states, boycotted the meeting in protest against the participation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, bilateral talks were held between him and several EU foreign ministers, including Austria's Alexander Schallenberg.
November 30, 2023
Torture Criticism Against Interpol President in Vienna
Amid preparations for the four-day Interpol General Assembly in Vienna, which also celebrates the 100th anniversary of the founding of the International Police Organization, a serious charge has been brought against Interpol President Major General Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi. Two Britons, Matthew Hedges and Ali Issa Ahmad, have filed a criminal complaint in Vienna against Al-Raisi, who is accused of being responsible for the torture of numerous people during his time as head of the security forces in the United Arab Emirates.
November 30, 2023
91st General Assembly of INTERPOL in Vienna: A Century in the Fight Against Crime
The 91st General Assembly of INTERPOL marks a historic event - it is the 100th anniversary of the organization. Over 1,000 police and law enforcement leaders from more than 160 countries gather in Vienna, the place where INTERPOL was founded in 1923, to discuss the challenges and innovations in the global fight against crime.
November 29, 2023
Feminist Foreign Policy in Focus: Experts Discuss New Perspectives in Austria's Parliament
The Austrian Parliament hosted an important panel discussion on "Feminist Foreign Policy", where experts emphasized the need for a change of perspective in international politics.
November 29, 2023
Austria and Slovakia Emphasize the Importance of Cooperation and Regional Stability
At a time of global uncertainties and regional conflicts, Austria and Slovakia have reaffirmed their common vision for a more stable European Union and enhanced regional cooperation. This was clearly expressed during the inaugural visit of Slovakian Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár to Vienna, where he met with his Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg. However, the recent parliamentary elections in Slovakia marked a significant turning point in European politics with the election victory of left-wing populist Robert Fico and his Smer-SSD party.
November 28, 2023
Austria in the Fight Against Violence Against Women
In Austria and around the world, the fight against violence against women and girls is being pursued with vigor. This is reflected in various initiatives and events that raise awareness of this important issue and promote concrete measures to combat such violence.
November 28, 2023
Discussion in the Austrian Parliament on Dual Citizenship for South Tyroleans
A motion for a resolution recently tabled in the Austrian Parliament by the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) on the introduction of dual citizenship for South Tyroleans was rejected by the other parliamentary groups. This proposal aimed to allow members of the German and Ladin-speaking ethnic groups in South Tyrol to acquire Austrian citizenship in addition to Italian citizenship.
November 26, 2023
U.S. Embassy and Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation Explore the Future of Transatlantic Relations
The Amerika Haus in Vienna was the venue for a major panel discussion on "An Uncertain Future: The State of Transatlantic Relations in a World on Fire", organized by the Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation in cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Austria.
November 23, 2023
IAEA Chief Grossi Criticizes Iran: Restriction of Nuclear Inspections and Global Nuclear Security
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its director Rafael Grossi are in a growing conflict with Iran over the monitoring of Iran's nuclear program. Tehran's recent decision to withdraw the accreditation of several IAEA inspectors has caused considerable concern.
November 22, 2023
Bulgaria's Foreign Minister in Vienna: Focus on Austria's Schengen Veto against Bulgaria and Romania
At a meeting in Vienna, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Bulgaria, Mariya Gabriel, and her Austrian counterpart, Alexander Schallenberg, emphasized the importance of close cooperation between their countries for security and stability in Europe. Both countries will soon be celebrating 145 years of diplomatic relations and underlined their role as key players in European politics. However, the meeting was overshadowed by Austria's Schengen veto against Bulgaria and Romania.
November 22, 2023
Austria and the United Kingdom Sign Strategic Partnership
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg was the first EU Foreign Minister to meet his new British counterpart David Cameron in London. The meeting focused on the situation in the Middle East and Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.
November 21, 2023
Austria Plans Increase in Foreign Policy Budget for 2024
The increased budget for foreign policy matters was discussed as part of the current deliberations in the Budget Committee on the Federal Finance Act 2024. Accordingly, the budget is to rise to 677.2 million euros in the coming year, which corresponds to an increase of 41.7 million euros or 6.6 percent compared to 2023.
November 20, 2023
Austria-Albania: Focus on Strengthening Relations and EU Integration
Recent meetings between Austrian and Albanian foreign ministers have emphasized the deepened cooperation between the two countries, especially in the context of EU enlargement and regional stability.
November 20, 2023
Energy Transition and Sustainability: French Visit to the AMAG Aluminum Plant in Upper Austria
The French Ambassador to Austria, Gilles Pécout, visited the AMAG aluminum factory in Upper Austria. He was accompanied by the Honorary Consul Mr. Redlhammer and Mr. Chaumont from the Economic Service. During this visit, they were received by the Managing Director of AMAG, Gerald Mayer, and the company spokesman, Leopold Pöcksteiner. The meeting provided an opportunity to shed light on the company's operational activities, strengths, and challenges.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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