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Bankruptcy Proceedings Against Ostchem Holding GmbH: Ukrainian Oligarch Dmytro Firtash in Financial Difficulties
Bankruptcy proceedings were opened at the Salzburg Regional Court against Ostchem Holding GmbH, a company linked to a major oligarch in Ukraine. The Ukrainian entrepreneur Dmytro Firtash, considered one of Ukraine's most influential and wealthiest oligarchs, is the company's majority shareholder, which has increasingly run into financial difficulties in recent years.
December 23, 2024
Japan's Ambassador Ryuta Mizuuchi Ends his Term of Office in Austria
A total of 167 guests from the worlds of politics, diplomacy, business, culture, and science gathered at the Hotel InterContinental Vienna to bid a worthy farewell to the Japanese Ambassador H.E. Ryuta Mizuuchi and his wife Dr. Akemi Mizuuchi.
December 22, 2024
The Marsalek Espionage Case: A Web of Intrigue and Agents
The espionage affair surrounding former Wirecard manager Jan Marsalek has developed into one of Europe's biggest secret service scandals. New revelations show how deep and widely ramified the network of the fugitive manager, who is said to be operating on behalf of Russian intelligence services, is. The case reveals not only a complex network of agents and connections but also an alarming security situation in Austria and beyond.
December 22, 2024
Austria's Schallenberg Calls for New EU Course in Syria and Criticizes Israeli Occupation
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg (ÖVP) is calling for a more pragmatic approach from European foreign policy in dealing with Syria and is positioning himself on the side of international law with his criticism of Israel's occupation of the Golan Heights. His demands have met with mixed reactions within the EU, but also raise fundamental questions about Europe's role in the region. Whether this course will endure remains uncertain given Austria's often cautious foreign policy.
December 18, 2024
Poland and Austria Network in the Field of Fintech and Finance
The Polish Embassy in Vienna hosted the conference “Poland and Austria: cooperation and exchange of expertise. Fintech and finance” took place. The event brought together many experts, industry representatives, and decision-makers from Poland and Austria. The aim was to network the dynamically growing Polish fintech sector with the stable and well-regulated Austrian financial market and explore potential cooperation areas.
December 18, 2024
OMV Abandons Plans to Sell Exploration Business in New Zealand
Following an intensive review, the Executive Board of OMV Aktiengesellschaft has decided not to pursue the sale process for the exploration and production (E&P) business in New Zealand. OMV New Zealand Limited will, therefore, remain part of the partly state-owned energy company's E&P portfolio.
December 17, 2024
Austria and Nauru: Working Together to Tackle Global Challenges
Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and his Nauruan counterpart Lionel Rouwen Aingimea met in Vienna for a bilateral meeting. Topics such as climate change, the geopolitical situation in the Indo-Pacific, and global security issues took center stage.
December 17, 2024
Westbahn Expands Offer: New Overnight Connection from Vienna to Salzburg
With the timetable change on December 15, 2024, the Westbahn is introducing a significant innovation: a daily night connection from Vienna to Salzburg. This additional late-night connection is aimed in particular at commuters, night owls, and travelers who want to travel comfortably from Vienna to the West even late at night.
December 16, 2024
Further EU Infringement Proceedings Initiated Against Austria
The European Commission has initiated further infringement proceedings against Austria. The reason: is non-compliance with EU regulations on the recognition of professional qualifications. The Commission sees this as violating the rules intended to make it easier for freelancers and employees to work temporarily and occasionally in other Member States.
December 16, 2024
Austria Joins Artemis Accords: A Milestone for International Space Cooperation
Austria has become the 50th country to sign the Artemis Accords, thus taking an important step towards international cooperation in space research. Ambassador Petra Schneebauer signed the agreement in the presence of NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and Jennifer R. Littlejohn, Acting Assistant Secretary of State at the US Department of State.
December 12, 2024
OSCE Ministerial Council in Malta: Challenges for the European Security Architecture
The 31st Ministerial Council of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) ended today in Malta with groundbreaking decisions aimed at securing the future of the organization and strengthening its ability to act. The meeting focused on personnel decisions, institutional reforms, the controversial participation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, and the ongoing tensions surrounding the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.
December 12, 2024
OPEC Revises Forecasts and Cadre: Decline in Global Oil Demand Expected
OPEC has revised its expectations for global oil demand in 2024 and 2025 downwards for the fifth time in a row. At the same time, the organization is celebrating the eighth anniversary of the “Declaration of Cooperation” and appointing new leaders.
December 12, 2024
New Flight Connection Between Vienna and Chengdu Inaugurated
Hainan Airlines links Europe and Asia with a new direct flight route between Vienna and Chengdu. The opening of the route was attended by a prominent delegation, including Qi Mei, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Austria, Julian Jäger, CEO of Flughafen Wien AG, Meng Fanzhuang, Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, and Zhang Zhuo, General Manager Austria of Hainan Airlines. The event marks another milestone in the bilateral relations between Austria and China.
December 12, 2024
Reforms as the Key to the Future of the EU: Bosnia and Herzegovina on the Road to Membership
Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg received his counterpart from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković, for a working meeting in Vienna. The meeting focused on Bosnia and Herzegovina's EU accession process, bilateral relations, and current foreign policy issues. The message was clear: reforms are the key to the country's EU future.
December 11, 2024
Polish Minister Katarzyna Kotula Visits Austria: Joint Impulses for European Equality Policy
The Polish Minister for Gender Equality, Katarzyna Kotula, visited Austria. The focus of her visit was a meeting with the Austrian Federal Minister for Women, Family, Youth and Integration, Susanne Raab. The talks focused on gender equality policies in Europe, particularly in Poland and Austria, as well as on anti-discrimination laws in both countries. The plans of the Polish EU Council Presidency, which Poland will assume from January 2025, were also discussed.
December 11, 2024
OMV Terminates Gas Supply Contract with Gazprom
OMV has terminated its long-term gas supply contract with the Russian energy group Gazprom with immediate effect. According to OMV, this was due to “fundamental breaches of contract” by Gazprom, in particular, because no gas deliveries have taken place since November 16, 2024. This decision represents a turning point in Austrian energy policy and marks the end of a business relationship that has lasted over 50 years.
December 11, 2024
Austria Halts Asylum Procedure for Syrians: Consequences and Reactions
One day after the fall of Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad, Austria and many other European countries drastically revised their asylum policies for Syrian citizens. Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) instructed Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP) to suspend all ongoing Syrian asylum procedures and to review existing grants of asylum. This also applies to family reunification, which will be temporarily halted. Germany, Italy, and Great Britain have also taken similar steps.
December 11, 2024
Police Violence During Protests in Georgia: Sharp Criticism from OSCE and Ombudsman
The escalating protests in Georgia against the government's decision to suspend EU accession negotiations until 2028 have been accompanied by a wave of international criticism. Both the OSCE and the Georgian human rights commissioner have condemned the disproportionate use of force by the police. Reports of excessive police violence, numerous injuries, and arrests paint a bleak picture of the situation in the former Soviet republic.
December 4, 2024
Firtash Remains in Vienna for the Time Being: Regional Court Stops Extradition to the USA
The long-running legal dispute over Ukrainian oligarch Dmytro Firtash's extradition to the USA has taken a new turn. The Vienna Regional Court ruled that the controversial businessman's extradition to the United States was inadmissible. However, this decision may not be the last word in the internationally sensational case, as the Vienna public prosecutor's office has already announced that it will appeal by December 16.
December 4, 2024
René Benko at the Center of International Investigations: Arrest Warrant from Italy for Real Estate Projects
An international warrant for the arrest of Austrian real estate entrepreneur René Benko, founder of the Signa empire, has triggered a wave of investigations extending from Italy to Austria and Germany. The accusations range from corruption and criminal association to violations of tax law. While Benko was questioned in Tyrol and remains at large, extensive investigations are underway in Italy, involving over 100 searches and the arrest of nine suspects.
December 3, 2024
Jewish Museum Vienna Kicks Off Anniversary Year with Gala in New York
A special gala dinner was held in the elegant rooms of Christie's New York to mark the start of the 130th anniversary year of the Jewish Museum Vienna. This exclusive event brought together important personalities from the worlds of culture, business, and diplomacy and paid tribute to the historical significance of the world's first Jewish museum, which opened in Vienna in 1895.
December 3, 2024
Igor Strehl Launches Dunaj Family Office Consulting in Vienna
With the founding of Dunaj Family Office Consulting 24/7 GmbH, Igor Strehl, an experienced expert in the field of financial and real estate management, is establishing a new player in the Austrian consulting landscape. The company, which specializes in investments, relocations, and property management, is positioning itself as a comprehensive service provider and trustworthy partner for private and institutional clients in Austria.
December 2, 2024
KTM Facing Insolvency: Effects on Upper Austria and the Austrian Economy
The longstanding Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM is on the brink of collapse. The company filed applications for restructuring proceedings with self-administration with the Ried Regional Court. The company's financial difficulties are serious: with liabilities of over 1.8 billion euros, the KTM crisis is one of the biggest insolvencies in the history of Austrian industry.
December 2, 2024
Cultural Bridge between Austria and Japan: Schönbrunn Palace and Himeji Castle Enter Into Partnership
Two of the most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and Himeji Castle in Japan signed a partnership agreement. This cooperation aims to preserve cultural treasures, exchange knowledge, and promote sustainable tourism and cultural education. The signing ceremony took place in the magnificent White and Gold Rooms of Schönbrunn Palace and was attended by high-ranking representatives from both countries.
December 2, 2024
Islamic Religious Community in Austria on the Future of Imam Training
With the symposium “Imams in modern society: training paths and social responsibility”, the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ) initiated a discussion about the role of imams in Austria. The event aimed to lay the foundations for Austrian imam training that does justice to both the religious traditions of Muslim communities and the requirements of a pluralistic society.
December 2, 2024
New Institute in Vienna with Conference on Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Society
The luxury hotel SO/Vienna opened its doors for an event on the technological future: “AI & The Future: The Age of Machines” by a new think tank in Vienna, the Vienna Institute for Global Studies.
November 28, 2024
Abuse of Office and Saudi Deal for Ex-Mayor in Upper Austria
A controversial case of abuse of office and improper acceptance of gifts has shaken a municipality in the district of Vöcklabruck, Upper Austria. A former mayor of the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) stood before the regional court in Wels, as he is said to have accepted payments from a Saudi Arabian prince over decades to enable the rezoning of grassland into building land.
November 28, 2024
Viennese Sausage Stand Becomes UNESCO Cultural Heritage: A Tribute to the Viennese Way of Life
The Viennese sausage stand culture has been officially added to UNESCO's national list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. With this recognition, the sausage stand joins the prestigious list of Austrian traditions and is now on par with Vienna's coffee house and wine tavern culture. The decision underlines the cultural and social significance of this institution, which goes far beyond its culinary role.
November 27, 2024
Austrian Chancellor Nehammer Invites Donald Trump to Austria for Ukraine Peace Talks
In a telephone conversation with US President-elect Donald Trump, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer congratulated him on his election victory and signaled Austria's willingness to act as a neutral venue for peace talks in the Ukraine conflict. The talks also covered energy security, economic and defense cooperation, and strengthening bilateral relations between Austria and the USA.
November 27, 2024
BRICS 2024: Diplomacy Between Myths and Reality
The 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, was highlighted by Dmitry Lyubinsky, the Russian Ambassador to Austria, as one of the most important global events of 2024. In his statement, Lyubinsky repeatedly criticized the portrayal of the alliance in Western media and addressed supposed myths surrounding BRICS. But how convincing are his arguments?
November 26, 2024
Concert Night at the Austrian Foreign Ministry: Music as a Bridge between Cultures
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg hosted a special concert evening at the Palais Niederösterreich under the motto “The unifying power of music”. For the second time, this event, organized by the Foreign Ministry's “Dialogue of Cultures” task force, was an impressive example of how art and music can build bridges and promote dialogue.
November 26, 2024
Austria's Commitment to Freedom of Religion and Belief: From Red Wednesday to International Alliances
On “Red Wednesday”, a campaign by the international Catholic aid organization Aid to the Church in Need, the focus is on the fate of millions of persecuted, oppressed, and threatened Christians. Numerous buildings around the world, including in Austria, will be illuminated in red to commemorate the victims of persecution and violence. The Austrian Foreign Ministry has actively supported this campaign for years and is committed to freedom of religion and belief as well as the protection of religious minorities - at national and international levels.
November 24, 2024
Arrest Warrants Against Netanyahu and Gallant: Austria Sharply Criticizes ICC Decision
The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague recently issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip. This decision has sparked fierce international debate and provoked harsh criticism - including from Austria. The Austrian Foreign Ministry published a clear statement describing the arrest warrants as “incomprehensible and incomprehensible”.
November 24, 2024
Focus on European and Global Economic Interdependencies: 21st Vienna Economic Forum 2024
High-ranking representatives from business and politics gathered at the House of Engineers in Vienna to take part in the 21st Vienna Economic Forum - Vienna Future Dialogue 2024. Under this year's motto “Regional economy as part of the European and global economy”, the forum was all about economic and political dialog. The event provided a platform for analyzing the challenges of the present and working together to develop paths for a sustainable future.
November 21, 2024
Lower Austria's Schoeller-Bleckmann Oilfield Equipment AG Records Significant Drop in Profits
Schoeller-Bleckmann Oilfield Equipment AG (SBO), a leading global supplier of specialized equipment for the oil and gas industry, recorded a significant decline in net profit in the first three quarters of 2024. With a slump of 38 percent, profit fell to 34.4 million euros, highlighting the challenges of a volatile market and geopolitical uncertainties.
November 21, 2024
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi Honored with the Henry DeWolf Smyth Nuclear Statesman Award
Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), was honored with the Henry De Wolf Smyth Nuclear Statesman Award at the American Nuclear Society (ANS) Winter Conference in Florida. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
November 20, 2024
Vienna Stars as European Capital of Democracy 2024/25
Vienna was officially named the European Capital of Democracy 2024/25. The Year of Democracy, in which the city will implement a diverse program to promote democratic participation and co-determination, began at a festive event. Vienna is the second city after Barcelona to hold this title.
November 20, 2024
Iran Announces Limitation of Uranium Production: IAEA and the International Community are Watching Closely
Iran has announced that it will voluntarily limit its production of highly enriched uranium. This decision was announced by the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, following talks with high-ranking Iranian officials in Tehran. The measure is seen as an important step towards de-escalation, particularly given the ongoing tensions in the region.
November 19, 2024
1,000 Days of War: Austria Steps Up Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine and Moldova
Tuesday, November 21, 2024, marks the 1,000th anniversary of the beginning of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. In a statement, Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg condemned the “brutal war of aggression in violation of international law”, which has plunged Ukraine into a humanitarian and economic crisis for 1,000 days.
November 19, 2024
Austria and Liechtenstein to Chair the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region in 2025
The handover ceremony for the presidency of the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region (EUSALP) took place at Brdo Castle in Slovenia. From January 2025, Austria and Liechtenstein will jointly take over the leadership from Slovenia.
November 19, 2024
Russian Gas Flow to Austria: Stop of Gazprom Deliveries without Noticeable Effects
Despite the cessation of gas deliveries by the Russian energy group Gazprom to the Austrian OMV, the gas flow to Austria remains stable. Deliveries were registered at the important Baumgarten hub in Lower Austria, albeit with a slight reduction compared to previous months.
November 19, 2024
Celebrities and Journalists from Austria, Europe and America Leave X
The once important platform Twitter, now known as X, is experiencing a massive decline in prominent users. While international personalities such as Stephen King or media outlets such as the British Guardian have announced their departure, the exodus is also becoming visible in Austria. Numerous opinion leaders and journalists have closed their accounts under the hashtag #eXit.
November 17, 2024
UNODC: Increase in Opium Cultivation in Afghanistan Despite Continued Drug Ban
According to a recent report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Vienna, opium cultivation in Afghanistan increased by 19 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year. After an unprecedented decline of 95% in 2023, when the de facto authorities enforced a strict ban on cultivation, the area under cultivation has reached 12,800 hectares. Nevertheless, cultivation is still far below the figures for 2022, when 232,000 hectares were used for opium cultivation.
November 17, 2024
Meet the New Permanent Observer of the Council of Europe to the International Organizations in Vienna
Hermine Poppeller, the Council of Europe's new permanent observer, presented her credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador, Hermine Poppeller, the new permanent observer of the Council of Europe to the International Organizations in Vienna.
November 14, 2024
Arbitration Court Awards OMV 230 Million Euros in Dispute with Gazprom
A significant legal victory for OMV: the Austrian energy group has successfully concluded arbitration proceedings against Gazprom Export under the rules of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
November 14, 2024
Vienna's MA 35: Progress at the Dreaded Office, but Challenges Remain
Vienna's MA 35, responsible for immigration and citizenship, has long been regarded as a symbol of inefficient administration and endless waiting times. The City of Vienna wants to counteract this image with a comprehensive reform process. Initial successes have been achieved, but not all problems have been solved.
November 13, 2024
Against Forgetting Political Prisoners in Belarus: “Connection” at Playhouse Vienna
Belarusian artist Maryna Yakubovich presented her solo performance “Connection” at Schauspielhaus Wien. This one-woman play focuses on the courageous resistance against political oppression in Belarus and sheds light on the dramatic situation of the opposition. The performance occurred as part of the Artists Solidarity Program Europe (ASoP) of the Austrian Foreign Ministry.
November 13, 2024
Austrian Airlines Extends Flight Stop to Tel Aviv and Tehran
The tense security situation in the Middle East is having an impact on international air traffic. Austrian Airlines (AUA) is reacting to the current situation and is further suspending its flights to Tel Aviv and Tehran.
November 11, 2024
New Bankruptcy in the Signa Group: Signa Development Icon GmbH Will not be Continued
The economic turbulence surrounding the Signa Group shows no sign of abating. The creditor protection association Creditreform announced that Signa Development Icon GmbH has filed for bankruptcy proceedings, which will not be continued in the future. "The Icon Vienna" houses prominent companies and diplomatic missions and is a subsidiary of the Signa Development Selection AG, which had previously filed for insolvency.
November 11, 2024
Othmar Karas is the New President of the European Forum Alpbach
Othmar Karas, long-time ÖVP-EU politician and former Vice-President of the European Parliament, is the new President of the European Forum Alpbach (EFA). With the handover from Andreas Treichl, who successfully reoriented the Forum over the last four years, Karas takes over the leadership of one of the most important platforms for European dialogue on future issues. Othmar Karas has already announced his plans for an even more international and European forum.
November 10, 2024
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