Western European Expats in Vienna, Austria | Bilateral Relations

Austria and Western European countries - Read the latest headlines about bilateral relations in the areas of economy, diplomacy and culture

Cyprus Concludes Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Cooperation

The final session of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) was chaired by Cyprus. Cyprus' engagement in the OSCE FSC impressively illustrates the value of dialog and multilateral cooperation, even in the most difficult times.

March 13, 2024

Italy's Giorgia Meloni Advocates Development and Autonomy for South Tyrol

In a move to strengthen the autonomy and development of northern Italy, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni signed agreements with the autonomous provinces of Trento and Bolzano. The ceremonies, which took place in the respective provincial capitals, marked a decisive moment for the regions, which historically enjoyed a special autonomy within Italy.

March 12, 2024

Austria President Van der Bellen Opens New Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam

The National Holocaust Museum in Amsterdam was opened in a festive ceremony that was overshadowed by protests. Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, who represented Austria on this occasion, emphasized his country's profound responsibility in the context of the dark chapters of the Holocaust.

March 11, 2024

Six Decades in the Service of Peace: Austria Celebrates 60 Years of UNFICYP Deployment in Cyprus

Austria's involvement in the "United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus" (UNFICYP) marks an important anniversary this year: the Alpine Republic has been supporting the peacekeeping mission on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus for sixty years. A look back at the beginnings in April 1964 shows the deployment of a field hospital with 55 men following the unanimous adoption of Resolution 186 by the UN Security Council in March of the same year.

March 10, 2024

Meet Cyprus Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Vienna

Andreas Ignatiou, Cyprus 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, Andreas Ignatiou, the permanent representative of the Republic of Cyprus to the International Organizations in Vienna and Ambassador to Austria.

March 7, 2024

City of Vienna Warns of Nuclear Renaissance and Small Modular Reactors in Europe

In a recent statement, Vienna City Councillor for Climate Action Jürgen Czernohorszky, who is also Chairman of the Cities for Nuclear Free Europe (CNFE) initiative, is critical of Sweden's nuclear power plans, the situation, and the development of Small Modular Reactors in Europe.

March 4, 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

Greece Takes Over ICMPD Chairmanship from Türkiye: Reorientation of Migration Partnerships

At a ceremony in Brussels, the chairmanship of the steering group of the International Center for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) was handed over from Türkiye to Greece. Under the motto "A holistic approach to balanced migration partnerships", high-level representatives came together to discuss the future direction of migration policy.

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

Michelin Guide Puts Austria's Cuisine Back on the Map

The MICHELIN Guide, one of the world's most renowned institutions for restaurant ratings, has announced that it will once again publish an Austria-wide selection of top restaurants from 2025.

February 15, 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

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

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

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

International Flair at the 75th Officers' Ball in Vienna

The Officers' Ball in Vienna attracted not only local guests but also an impressive number of international guests, underlining the importance of the event in the diplomatic calendar.

January 24, 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

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

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

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

Westbahn Maintains Service Between Vienna and Munich During GDL Strike

Despite the announced three-day strike by the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL), which will take place from Wednesday, January 10 to Friday, January 12, 2024, WESTbahn confirms that its train services to and from Rosenheim and Munich will continue to run as planned.

January 9, 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

South Tyrol on the Verge of Forming a Center-Right Five-Party Coalition

In South Tyrol, the coalition negotiations of a center-right five-party coalition, consisting of the South Tyrolean People's Party (SVP), the South Tyrolean Freedom Party, Fratelli d'Italia, Lega, and La Civica, have reached a basic agreement on all substantive issues.

January 4, 2024

Austrian Chancellor Nehammer Reaffirms Support for South Tyrol's Autonomy Reform

At a meeting in Vienna, Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer assured South Tyrol's Governor Arno Kompatscher of Austria's support for the revision of South Tyrol's autonomy.

January 2, 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

Greece and Austria: Shared Values and Visions for the Future

Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the President of the Hellenic Republic, paid an official visit to Austria, invited by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen. This visit symbolizes not only the deep cultural and political ties between the two countries but also their joint efforts in areas such as climate protection, security, and European integration.

December 12, 2023

Austria's Air Defense in Transition: The Importance of 'Sky Shield'

At a time of growing global uncertainties and threats, Austria's air defense capability is coming into focus. With the implementation of the "Sky Shield" program, Austria is facing up to the challenges of the 21st century, emphasizes Brigadier Gerfried Promberger, Commander of the Austrian Armed Forces Air Forces.

December 11, 2023

The Future of a Crumbling Empire: René Benko's Signa Group in Insolvency

The insolvency of the Signa Group, an Austrian company active in various sectors, including the real estate market, has far-reaching implications. Read more about the future of the Austrian flagship company!

December 6, 2023

Glock Ecotech Launches Sustainable Energy Project in Sweden

The Austrian company Glock ecotech has taken a significant step towards sustainable energy supply in Sweden. With the successful commissioning of its first electricity-to-heat power plant near Nyköping, the company now also offers an environmentally friendly energy option in the Scandinavian region.

December 5, 2023

Israel Raises Travel Warnings: Tightened Security Situation in Austria and Europe

In a significant security measure, Israel's National Security Staff has increased travel warnings for its citizens in several countries, including Austria, Germany, France and the UK. The decision follows growing threats from Iran and its allies, as well as an increase in anti-Semitism worldwide.

December 4, 2023

Focus on Strengthening External Border Protection: Meeting of Interior Ministers in Szeged

At a meeting in Szeged, Hungary, interior ministers from the Visegrád 4 states (Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic), Austria and Germany emphasized the need for robust protection of the EU's external borders and a reform of EU migration policy. The Austrian police are heavily involved in the Balkans to control migration and combat organized smuggling.

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

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

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

Vienna Stock Exchange Strengthens International Presence with Barclays as New Trading Member

The Vienna Stock Exchange announced a significant step in its international expansion with the addition of Barclays Bank Ireland PLC as a new trading member. This marks an important milestone in the history of the exchange by adding one of the world's leading banks to its trading circle.

November 21, 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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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