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STRABAG's Order Backlog Exceeds 30 Billion Mark for the First Time
The listed construction services technology group STRABAG SE reached a historic milestone in the first nine months of 2025: its order backlog rose by a remarkable 24 percent to a new record level of EUR 31.4 billion.
November 13, 2025
DSN Uncovers Hamas Weapons Cache in Vienna
The Directorate for State Security and Intelligence (DSN) has dealt a significant blow to a global terrorist organization with ties to Hamas as part of internationally coordinated investigations: a weapons cache was uncovered in Vienna. There is a strong suspicion that the weapons were intended for use in planned terrorist attacks in Europe against Israeli or Jewish institutions.
November 7, 2025
German President Steinmeier Opens New German Embassy in Vienna and Calls for “Reinventing Europe”
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier concluded his three-day state visit to Austria. The focus of the visit was the official opening of the new German Embassy building in Vienna, accompanied by an urgent appeal to Europeans to reinvent the continent in the face of emerging geopolitical challenges.
October 26, 2025
Former FPÖ Politician Jenewein Becomes Press Spokesman for the German AfD
The AfD faction in the Thuringian state parliament has made a prominent and controversial personnel decision. Former Austrian FPÖ National Council member Hans-Jörg Jenewein is taking over the position of press spokesman for the faction.
October 23, 2025
Despite UN Sanctions Looming, Iran Refuses to Make Further Concessions
Iran does not intend to change its stance in the nuclear dispute with the international community, even in light of the imminent reintroduction of UN sanctions.
August 31, 2025
Nuclear Talks in the Shadow of Tensions: Iran and the E3 Struggle for Nuclear Agreement
Nuclear talks between Iran, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom took place in Istanbul, aimed at finding a solution to the controversial Iranian nuclear program. Although no concrete results have been announced yet, the talks are set to continue.
July 28, 2025
Austria's Clear Stance on Gaza: Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger Defends Call for Ceasefire
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS) has reiterated her support for a joint statement by 28 countries calling for an immediate end to the war in the Gaza Strip, declaring it to be “clear government policy.”
July 23, 2025
Ultimatum to Iran: Four Countries set Deadline for Nuclear Agreement by End of August
Diplomatic efforts to reach a nuclear agreement with Iran are entering a critical phase. The United States and the three European powers, France, Germany, and Great Britain, have set Iran a definitive deadline of the end of August to reach an agreement on its nuclear program.
July 16, 2025
Austria Strengthens Security Partnerships with the United Kingdom and Germany
Austria has deepened its bilateral relations with the United Kingdom and Germany in a series of important security policy consultations. The high-level talks focused on current security policy challenges, strategic interests, and strengthening defense cooperation in a changing global environment.
July 15, 2025
Vienna Trilogue on the Future of the Middle East Launched: Vienna Becomes Hub for Peace Efforts
In a significant diplomatic move, Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger welcomed her counterparts from Germany, Johann Wadephul, and Israel, Gideon Sa'ar, for groundbreaking talks on the future of the Middle East. The meeting, which serves as the kick-off for a now regular “Vienna Trilogue,” focused on urgent efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian aid for the Palestinian civilian population, and Iran's nuclear program.
July 10, 2025
Austria, Bavaria, and Italy Push for Digital Slot System for Brenner Transit
To alleviate the long-standing congestion on the Brenner transit route, Austria and Bavaria are collaborating with Italy to implement a digital slot system for truck journeys. This initiative was agreed upon by Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder and Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker during Söder's working visit to Vienna.
July 10, 2025
Wirecard Scandal: Liquidator Reveals Billion-Euro Loss
Five years after its collapse, the Wirecard scandal continues to reverberate: Insolvency administrator Dr. Michael Jaffe revealed in the trial against former CEO Markus Braun that an incredible €1.1 billion was “burned” at the payment processor. While Braun claims in court that a shadow network existed, the main suspect, Jan Marsalek, remains at large, presumably in Russia.
July 9, 2025
Wiiw Forecast: CEEC Countries Defy Global Uncertainties with Strong Growth
Despite the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, U.S. President Trump's protectionist trade policy, and the war in Ukraine, the economies of most countries in Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe (CEE) are expected to grow steadily in 2025 and 2026. This is according to the latest summer forecast by the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies (wiiw), which covers 23 countries in the region.
July 1, 2025
City Trialogue in Vienna: Working Together for a Sustainable and Livable Future
The mayors of Zurich, Hamburg, and Vienna met in the Austrian capital for the fifth “City Trialogue.” This year's exchange focused on pressing issues such as climate protection, renewable energies, circular economy, technology development, health infrastructure, care, and culture.
June 13, 2025
Iran Tensions Overshadow IAEA Meeting in Vienna: Tehran Warns of 'Strategic Mistake'
A resolution by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) condemning Iran for “failing to fulfill” its nuclear safeguards obligations has led to sharp warnings from Tehran at the ongoing meeting of the Board of Governors in Vienna.
June 12, 2025
EU and UK Ambassadors to Austria Reaffirm Support for Ukraine
At the first EU-UK summit since Brexit in London, the European Union and the United Kingdom agreed on a comprehensive security and defense partnership. The meeting focused on joint support for Ukraine, and the respective ambassadors in Vienna proudly announced this partnership in Austria as well.
May 29, 2025
EU Commission Initiates Several Infringement Proceedings Against Austria
The European Commission has initiated a series of infringement proceedings against Austria. Brussels sees considerable omissions in several areas - from customs and labor law to environmental law. Particularly explosive is a complaint before the European Court of Justice (ECJ) due to a far-reaching dispute of competence in the Danube Commission, which is steeped in tradition. Austria is therefore facing a wide range of accusations under European law.
May 7, 2025
Nuclear Dispute: Iran Urges Talks with Europe - Vienna and Oman as Key Factors
In the struggle to save the international nuclear agreement with Iran, Tehran wants to seek a meeting with the European signatory states before a possible new round of talks with the USA. According to diplomats, such a meeting could take place soon if the planned round of negotiations with the United States comes to fruition. In the meantime, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has called on Iran to explain suspicious facilities near its suspected nuclear sites.
April 28, 2025
Tri-national Military Exercise in Austrian Allentsteig with Almost 1,000 Swiss Soldiers
The multinational military exercise “TRIAS25” began at the Allentsteig military training area in Lower Austria. Around 1,300 soldiers from Switzerland, Germany, and Austria will be training together until May 9. The exercise aims to strengthen the interoperability of the armed forces and test new operational concepts.
April 15, 2025
Voices from Vienna Against Republika Srpska Leaders Amid Constitutional Crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina
In an unprecedented diplomatic move, Austria and Germany have imposed targeted travel bans against three high-ranking officials from Republika Srpska (RS) – including RS President Milorad Dodik – accusing them of endangering the constitutional integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). Meanwhile, the OSCE condemned legislative and institutional moves undermining BiH’s sovereignty and legal structure as well as assuring the organization's support for stability in the region.
April 9, 2025
German Election and AfD in the Wake of a Donation Scandal from Austria
The German parliamentary elections are approaching, and yet another donation scandal is rocking the Alternative for Germany (AfD). The focus is on millions of euros that are said to have flowed from Austria - in some cases in a questionable manner. While the Austrian authorities are investigating the suspicion of money laundering, the question arises as to what extent actors from the Alpine country are influencing the German election campaign.
February 19, 2025
Shock for Austrian Foreign Trade: Weak Demand from Abroad Depresses Exports
The Austrian economy is facing a new challenge: exports slumped more sharply in November 2024 than they have for years. In particular, weak demand from Germany and the EU is causing concern - experts are warning of long-term consequences for industry and the labor market.
February 7, 2025
Austria and Liechtenstein Take Over EUSALP Chairmanship
In 2025, Austria and Liechtenstein have taken on the co-chairmanship of the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region (EUSALP), a framework that fosters cross-border cooperation among seven countries and 48 regions. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and resilience, this initiative aims to ensure that the Alpine region remains a thriving and livable space for future generations.
February 5, 2025
Wiiw Forecast: Economic Growth in Central and Eastern Europe Defies Global Uncertainties
Despite weakening industry, private consumption remains a strong growth driver and makes a significant contribution to the region's economic stability. At the same time, the unpredictable economic policy decisions of the USA under President Trump pose considerable risks for the export-oriented countries in Central and Eastern Europe.
February 4, 2025
Rene Benko Arrested: From “Wunderwuzzi” to the Protagonist of a Billion-Dollar Scandal
Rene Benko, once a celebrated real estate entrepreneur and founder of the Signa Group, was arrested at his villa in Innsbruck. The Public Prosecutor's Office for Economic Affairs and Corruption (WKStA) in Vienna justified the arrest warrant because of the risk of concealment and the commission of a crime. Benko is suspected of concealing assets and manipulating evidence. His arrest marks the climax of one of the biggest business scandals in Austrian history.
January 24, 2025
Viennese Woman Kidnapped in Niger: Unclear Situation and Intensive Efforts for Clarification
Following the kidnapping of a 73-year-old Viennese woman in Niger, there are still no clues as to her whereabouts or the identity of the kidnappers. The Austrian Foreign Ministry confirmed the events and stated that the crisis team coordinated the investigation. A representative of the Austrian embassy in Algiers, which is responsible for Niger, is already on her way to the West African country to help on the ground.
January 13, 2025
Energy Partnership: Uniper Secures Natural Gas Supplies from OMV Petrom from 2027
According to insider information, the German energy group Uniper has concluded a long-term supply agreement with the Romanian OMV subsidiary OMV Petrom. From 2027, Uniper will purchase natural gas from Romania, extracted from the Neptun Deep project in the Black Sea. The agreement covers the supply of 15 terawatt hours of natural gas over five years. This corresponds to around 1.5 percent of total German gas imports in 2024.
January 7, 2025
Austrian Construction Group Strabag Fined Millions in Germany for Cartel Agreements
Austria's largest construction group, STRABAG SE, is again in the headlines due to cartel allegations. The German Federal Cartel Office has imposed a hefty fine of 2.79 million euros on STRABAG AG, a subsidiary of STRABAG SE, headquartered in Cologne. The reason for the fine is an illegal bidding agreement in connection with the renovation of the famous Zoobrücke bridge in Cologne.
November 6, 2024
Finland Takes Over OSCE Chairmanship in 2025: Focus on Resilience and Support for Ukraine
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen outlined Finland's priorities for the OSCE Chairmanship in 2025 to the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna. Finland's approach is based on three central pillars: resilience, support for Ukraine and upholding OSCE principles that have been violated by Russia's actions. This comes at a time when the European security architecture is under severe pressure.
September 25, 2024
Finance Ministers from German-speaking Countries Adopt Lake Constance Declaration to Strengthen Competitiveness
Finance ministers from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Luxembourg met in picturesque Vorarlberg, Austria, to adopt the so-called "Lake Constance Declaration". This landmark declaration aims to strengthen Europe's competitiveness in a rapidly changing global economy while safeguarding the continent's prosperity and stability.
August 13, 2024
Shield 24: Largest Austrian Armed Forces Exercise in a Decade
From June 10 to 21, 2024, the Austrian Armed Forces will be conducting the most comprehensive military exercise of the last ten years. Around 7,500 soldiers and civilian staff will take part in “Schutzschild 24”, supported by international forces from Germany, Sweden, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
June 9, 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 Signs Pact for Hydrogen Corridor
In a step towards a sustainable energy future, the energy ministers of Italy, Germany, and Austria have signed a joint declaration of intent to develop a hydrogen import corridor between the three countries.
May 30, 2024
Vienna to Host the "TRATOLOW" Climate Conference for the Western Balkans and Turkey
In a crucial meeting in Vienna today, leading climate and environmental representatives from the Western Balkans, Turkey and the EU discussed strategies to tackle climate change. Organized by the Austrian Ministry for Climate Action, the EU Department for Climate Action and the Austrian Environment Agency, the conference focused on the TRATOLOW project, which aims to achieve a sustainable climate transition in these regions.
April 29, 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
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
Jan Marsalek's Deep Connections with Russian Intelligence Revealed
Jan Marsalek, once a high-ranking figure at Wirecard and now one of Europe's most wanted criminals, has been exposed as a long-time spy for Russia. Marsalek is reportedly currently in Dubai and is reorganizing Russian operations in Africa.
December 15, 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
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
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
Austrian Journalists Club Demands Release of Julian Assange
The Austrian Journalists Club (ÖJC) joins the call of German sections of some international organizations and German NGOs for the immediate release of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange.
August 21, 2023
Political Support for Southern Hydrogen Corridor: Austria, Germany, and Italy Sign Joint Letter
The Southern Hydrogen Corridor, developed by major European transmission system operators, aims to connect North Africa, Italy, Austria, and Germany to supply important European demand clusters with competitive renewable hydrogen.
May 10, 2023
German-Speaking Foreign Ministers Discuss International Trouble Spots in Salzburg
The German-speaking Foreign Ministers Alexander Schallenberg from Austria, Annalena Baerbock from Germany, Dominique Hasler from Liechtenstein, Jean Asselborn from Luxembourg, and Ignazio Cassis from Switzerland met to discuss global and European challenges.
May 2, 2023
Patents Issued by Austria Reached Record Levels
In 2022, Austrian companies have filed more inventions with the European Patent Office than ever before. Semiconductors increased strongly.
March 29, 2023
Airport Strikes in Germany Also Affect Vienna
There will be many strikes in Airports in several cities in Germany. This will be the reason for plenty of flight cancellations occurring in Germany and the world. Vienna airport in Schwechat is also being affected.
March 13, 2023
German Chamber of Commerce in Austria Organized New Year's Reception 2023 in Graz
After two years of interruption, the traditional joint New Year's reception of the German Chamber of Commerce in Austria (DHK) could finally be held again. The cultivated atmosphere of the auditorium of the Old University of Graz provided the setting for the event, which was attended by around 200 representatives of the Styrian business community.
January 18, 2023
German Literature Archive Receives Estate of Austrian Poet Rainer Maria Rilke
The transfer of writings and materials of the poet Rainer Maria Rilke (1875-1926) to the German Literature Archive Marbach is the largest transfer to the Literature Archive in Baden-Württemberg with the estate, which had been in private hands for almost 100 years.
December 1, 2022
Delegation of Iranian Nuclear Negotiators Will Arrive in Vienna
An Iranian delegation will travel to Vienna in the coming days to try to resolve differences with the International Atomic Energy Agency. This was stated by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.
November 3, 2022
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