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Alexander Schallenberg
International Headquarters Vienna: Economic Importance and Future Potential
A recently published study by the economic research institute WIFO on behalf of the Austrian Foreign Ministry illustrates the significant financial impact of international organizations in Austria.
July 31, 2024
North Macedonia and Austria Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation and Economic Partnership
Austria and North Macedonia have further deepened their close relations in a diplomatic meeting. Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and his North Macedonian counterpart Timčo Mucunski met in Vienna to discuss various topics, including economic cooperation, migration, security, and EU enlargement.
July 28, 2024
Austria Calls for a Reorientation of EU Policy Towards Syria
Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg is calling for a fundamental reorientation of EU policy towards Syria and is receiving support from seven of his EU colleagues from Italy, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Greece, Slovenia, and Slovakia.
July 23, 2024
Austrian Foreign Minister Schallenberg Opposes Boycott of Hungary's EU Presidency
Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg has firmly opposed a boycott of Hungary's EU Presidency, despite the controversial solo actions of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who recently traveled to Moscow without an EU mandate. Schallenberg emphasized the importance of maintaining a professional working relationship within the EU.
July 10, 2024
Politicians Debate Austrian Foreign Policy in Times of Global Change
Austrian foreign policy was the focus of a topical debate with Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg during the Federal Council session. Under the title "Austria's Foreign Policy in a Time of Global Change", the Federal Councillors discussed the challenges and direction of Austrian neutrality as well as the integration of the Western Balkans into the European Union.
July 8, 2024
Indonesian Foreign Minister in Vienna For Ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and Recognition of Palestine
During her visit to Vienna, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi met the Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), Dr. Robert Floyd, and her Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg. Ms. Marsudi's agenda included supporting the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) and strengthening bilateral relations with Austria.
July 4, 2024 · Updated: July 5, 2024; 15:21
Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf in Vienna on Close Economic Relations
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg welcomed his Algerian counterpart Ahmed Attaf to Vienna for a working visit. During the talks between the two foreign ministers, particular attention was paid to the joint fight against illegal migration and the expansion of economic cooperation, especially in the field of green hydrogen.
July 4, 2024
One Year of "Friends of the Western Balkans": A Review of Progress and Challenges
The "Friends of the Western Balkans" initiative celebrated its first birthday under the leadership of Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg. Launched a year ago, the group aims to support and accelerate the EU integration process of the Western Balkan countries. The foreign ministers from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia met again in Göttweig to celebrate this milestone, review the past year and discuss future steps.
June 24, 2024
Intensification of Cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and Austria: Visit of Popșoi to Vienna
The Foreign Minister of the Republic of Moldova, Mihai Popșoi, is in Vienna to hold important talks with the Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, while the OSCE is holding talks in Chișinău with Moldovan state officials. These visits are part of Popșoi's wider efforts and travels across Europe to intensify cooperation between Moldova and the EU and Moldova's European aspirations.
June 21, 2024
Austria's Common Tones in Times of War and Conflict
Five musicians with Israeli, Arab, and Persian roots from Daniel Barenboim's West Eastern Divan Orchestra performed at Palais Niederösterreich, under the auspices of Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, highlighting the unifying power of music amid global crises and conflicts.
June 17, 2024
Farewell to Brigitte Bierlein: A Role Model for Generations
Austria has bid farewell to Brigitte Bierlein, the country's first female chancellor, who passed away at the beginning of June. The funeral services began with a solemn requiem in St. Stephen's Cathedral and ended with the burial at Vienna's Central Cemetery. Bierlein was not only honored as an outstanding lawyer and politician, but also as a courageous and far-sighted woman who was always ready to take on responsibility.
June 16, 2024
Austrian Foreign Minister Schallenberg Receives Deputy Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg received the Kyrgyz Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, Bakyt Torobaev, in Vienna for the first time. Amid the ongoing Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, Schallenberg emphasized the need to deepen relations with the Central Asian states. The main focus of the meeting was on strengthening the bilateral partnership, particularly in the economic sphere.
June 16, 2024
30 Years of the EU Referendum: A Success Story for Austria
On June 12, 1994, a groundbreaking referendum was held in Austria, in which two-thirds of the population voted in favor of joining the European Union. This decision laid the foundations for a new era of economic, political, and social integration of Austria in Europe. Since its official accession on January 1, 1995, the country has changed considerably and has since benefited from EU membership in many ways.
June 12, 2024
Austria's Foreign Minister Schallenberg in Berlin: Focus on the Future of Europe
Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg visited Berlin to discuss various European and international issues. His visit focused on the excellent bilateral relations between Austria and Germany, trade, and important decisions at the European level.
June 9, 2024
Austria Supports International Call for Ceasefire in Gaza Conflict
In an urgent joint statement, the USA, Great Britain, Germany, and numerous other countries, including Austria, have called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza conflict.
June 6, 2024
Austria's Schallenberg Visits Saudi Arabia: Exchange on Middle East Conflict and Economic cooperation
Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg visited Saudi Arabia as part of his latest visit to the Middle East and met with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The talks focused on the Middle East conflict and the intensification of economic relations between the two countries.
May 23, 2024
Brenner Transit Dispute: Austria and Italy Go to European Court
The long-running dispute over the anti-transit measures on the Brenner route between Austria and Italy continues to escalate: the European Commission has cleared the way for Italy to take Austria to the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
May 16, 2024
High Turnover of Russian Embassy Staff in Austria
The Austrian authorities are at the center of a sensitive security debate as diplomatic relations with Russia are strained by high staff turnover and serious allegations of espionage. Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg addresses these issues in light of new parliamentary questions.
May 13, 2024
Commemoration and Diplomacy: Austria's Schallenberg, Italy's Tajani and Brazil's Vieira in Imola
In a moving ceremony in Imola, which marked the 30th anniversary of the deaths of Formula 1 icons Roland Ratzenberger and Ayrton Senna, thousands of fans, political heavyweights, and family members came together to commemorate the deceased racing drivers. Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, who himself once witnessed the tragic events, played a central role in the celebrations, which combined emotional and diplomatic themes, together with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira.
May 6, 2024
Vienna Conference Ended with Call for Regulation of Autonomous Weapons Systems
The call for stricter rules for autonomous weapons systems is growing louder, especially after the first international conference on this topic, which took place in Vienna from April 29 to 30, 2024. Alexander Schallenberg, the Austrian Foreign Minister, emphasized the urgency of establishing clear international rules for the use of autonomous weapons.
May 6, 2024
20 Years of EU Enlargement: Austria Looks at the Success Story of European Integration
Exactly 20 years ago, on May 1, 2004, a historic enlargement of the European Union came into force. Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Cyprus became member states, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Europe. This fifth round of enlargement marked a milestone for the countries involved and a significant change for Austria, as Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber and the Austrian Society for European Politics emphasize.
May 5, 2024
Vienna Hosts Major International Conference on Autonomous Weapons Systems
The historic Hofburg Palace in Vienna will be the center of global attention as it hosts the international conference entitled "Humanity at the Crossroads: Autonomous Weapons Systems and the Challenge of Regulation." The Vienna Conference on Autonomous Weapons Systems will take place from April 29 to 30, 2024.
April 28, 2024
Austria and Costa Rica Strengthen Cooperation in the Field of Disarmament
Against the backdrop of the upcoming Vienna Conference on Autonomous Weapons Systems, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg met his Costa Rican counterpart Arnoldo André Tinoco in Vienna. The meeting marked an important step in the deepening of bilateral relations and joint disarmament efforts between the two countries.
April 28, 2024
Switzerland's Cassis and Austria's Schallenberg Focus on Neutrality and Security Policy
At a time when geopolitical tensions are increasing worldwide, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and his Swiss counterpart Ignazio Cassis met in Bern to discuss and strengthen bilateral relations, the neutrality of both countries, and their common security policy.
April 28, 2024
Escalating Tensions: EU Responds to Iranian Missile Strikes on Israel
Tensions in the Middle East have further escalated following the recent Iranian drone and missile attacks on Israel, prompting an international response, particularly from the European Union. An urgently convened virtual meeting of EU foreign ministers, including Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, took place to discuss the situation and possible steps to be taken.
April 17, 2024
Vienna to Host Austria's Honorary Consular Conference 2024
The Austrian capital Vienna was the center for the Honorary Consular Conference 2024, attended by around 200 honorary consuls from all over the world. The meeting, which takes place from April 10 to 12, is the first of its kind since 2015 and serves as a platform for the exchange and further development of consular practice.
April 14, 2024
Focus on Closer Cooperation and EU Enlargement: C5 Foreign Ministers Meet in Ljubljana
The foreign ministers of the so-called Central 5 Group (C5) - consisting of Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Hungary, and Slovakia - met in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, for a landmark meeting. This meeting marks another significant step in Central European diplomatic cooperation, which goes beyond mere neighborly assistance and focuses on the region's key challenges and opportunities.
March 26, 2024
Harmony and Dialogue at the Interreligious Iftar in Vienna
In an impressive demonstration of unity, Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and the President of the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ), Ümit Vural, hosted an unprecedented interfaith iftar. The event, which took place in the historic Palais Niederösterreich, brought together representatives of different religious communities and personalities from politics, science, and diplomacy.
March 20, 2024
Deepening Austrian-Kazakh Relations: Focus on Economic and Political Cooperation
At a time characterized by geopolitical tensions and economic challenges, Austria and Kazakhstan have reaffirmed their intention to raise bilateral relations to a new level. The working visit of Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu to Vienna marks an important milestone in the cooperation between the two countries, with a particular focus on the economy, politics, and security.
March 18, 2024
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Vienna: Commitment to Global Challenges
At a time of global uncertainty and increasing challenges, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken's visit to Vienna sent a strong message of international cooperation and diplomatic dialog. During his stay in the Austrian capital, Blinken tackled several key issues ranging from the fight against synthetic drugs to nuclear security and continued support for Ukraine.
March 17, 2024
Austria Expels Two Russian Diplomats and Austrian Ambassador in Moscow is Summoned
After Austria recently declared two Russian diplomats undesirable persons, Russia is now summoning Austria's ambassador to the Foreign Ministry. This indicates a serious deterioration in diplomatic relations between the two countries. So far, a total of eleven Russian diplomats have been expelled from Austria since 2020
March 14, 2024
Austria and Turkmenistan Sign Cooperation Agreement
In a step towards deepening their bilateral relations, Austria and Turkmenistan have signed a new cooperation agreement for the years 2024-2025. The meeting in Vienna between Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and his Turkmen counterpart Rashid Meredov focused on topics of mutual interest, including political-diplomatic cooperation, trade and economic relations, energy issues, and cultural exchanges.
March 12, 2024
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
Discussion in Austria's Parliament on Security Policy Concerning Ukraine and Israel
In the run-up to the European Council, Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg met in Parliament to discuss current security policy challenges.
December 13, 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
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
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