Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg welcomed his U.S. counterpart, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, to Vienna on March 15, 2024. The focus was on exchanging views on increased cooperation in view of the current ongoing crises. There was a particular focus on the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, the situation in Israel and Gaza, developments in the Western Balkans and the expansion of the strategic partnership between Austria and the U.S.

“As a convinced transatlanticist, strengthening our strategic partnership with the U.S. is a matter close to my heart. Europe and the U.S. not only share common interests. Rather, we are a community of values: we share a way of life based on democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law,” emphasized Foreign Minister Schallenberg.

The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine in particular shows how important the transatlantic partnership is and how well it works even in times of crisis. In view of the current situation on the ground, Foreign Minister Schallenberg and Secretary Blinken agreed that continued support for Ukraine is now particularly urgent.

In addition, Austria and the U.S. also share close relations with Israel. Against this backdrop, both emphasized that more humanitarian aid must finally reach the suffering people in Gaza and that all Hamas hostages must be released immediately. Austria and the U.S. also share the long-term goal of a two-state solution.

“Especially in difficult times, we must recognize that we must not only share but also defend the values that unite us. In view of Russian aggression and the conflict in the Middle East, it is crucial that we maintain our close alliance in the coming months,” warned Foreign Minister Schallenberg.

This close cooperation is also reflected in the joint efforts for the security and stability of the countries of the Western Balkans. Both foreign ministers agreed: The future of the countries of the Western Balkans lies in the EU.

Finally, the counterparts also emphasized the particularly close bilateral relations between Austria and the U.S. Not only is the U.S. Austria's second largest trading partner, but the strategic partnership is also growing steadily.

Foreign Minister Schallenberg was particularly pleased about the Working Holiday Program between Austria and the U.S., which was signed just a few weeks ago. He also highlighted the Austrian-American Media Fellowship Program for U.S. journalists, which is now entering its third round, as a success story.

“With these new programs, we are taking our strategic partnership to a very successful next level. And this level needs to be expanded. We need more exchange, more dialogue! Austria and the U.S. remain indispensable partners in all these areas,” said Foreign Minister Schallenberg and he was delighted with the intensive relations and excellent cooperation, which will be further strengthened in the future.

Photos: BMEIA/Gruber