A conversation with Dr. Michael Linhart, Austrian Ambassador to Germany

Mr. Ambassador, Austria and Germany today enjoy close political and economic ties. In which specific areas do you see potential for even closer cooperation?

We are two countries that are already closely linked due to our geographic proximity, our shared history, our traditions, and our common language. In addition, Austria and Germany also cooperate closely on an economic level. These strong ties allow us to continue to learn from each other on issues such as migration or the fight against terrorism and extremism as well as digitalization and sustainable energy. One example of our cooperative partnership is the gas storage facilities in Haidach near Salzburg, which supply energy to all of southern Germany. Further examples of our common interests can be found on European issues. Both countries are engaged in shaping the future for a secure and prosperous European Union, including the enlargement to the Western Balkans.

Let’s have a look at Eastern Europe. Austria has traditionally been a neutral country, much like Switzerland. However, since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, your country has taken a clear stance. What does Austria’s neutrality look like today?

We have always emphasized that neutrality means military neutrality, not political neutrality. Austria remains steadfast in the decision not to join a military alliance or supply weapons to a belligerent state. However, there was never any doubt that we would take a very clear stance on conflicts such as Russian aggression, and that we would stand in solidarity with Ukraine together with our partners and friends in Europe.

How do you see the future of Austrian-Russian relations? Will there be a rapprochement such as economic cooperation in the medium term, or will there be a permanent break?

First of all, I would like to emphasize again our full international solidarity with Ukraine. Political neutrality cannot exist in this war of aggression. Together with our European and many international partners, Austria condemns Russia’s unprovoked, unjustified, and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine in the strongest possible terms and has subsequently supported the sanctions against Russia. This war must be stopped and the territorial integrity of Ukraine must be restored. Russia is a neighbor of Europe, which means that dialogue will be necessary again at some point, but first Russia’s atrocities must end.

The world is moving toward a new Cold War. Russia, China and Iran are trying to destabilize the West. This is also a threat to Austria. Despite its neutrality, what can Austria contribute to the defense of the Western liberal order?

We clearly stand for European values, and they must be defended whenever they are violated. This means that we stand for a strong, self-confident Europe. We are taking a clear position in this conflict. We see ourselves as part of a coalition, a European coalition in which we defend our shared values together as one European family.

Smaller states might play a special role at the global level. The Austrian capital Vienna is not only home of the UN, but also of the OSCE and OPEC. What role do you see for Austria in the international system in the future?

Austria has always offered a platform for dialogue, which is why many international organizations are today located in Vienna. In the past, we have hosted several high-level negotiations, such as the nuclear deal with Iran and the negotiations on the Syrian issue. We are prepared to continue to take responsibility in the future. For example, we are running for a seat in the UN Security Council in 2027/2028. In doing so, we seek to elevate the positive impact smaller countries, such as Austria, can make on a global scale.

Let’s take a final look at the big picture. You also served as Austria’s foreign minister: What foreign policy priorities do you see for Austria in the next ten years?

Based on the fundamental principle of our European values, good relations with our neighbors are first and foremost important to us. These relations must always be cultivated and are urgently needed within the European Union. We are also in favor of a strong and self-confident Europe, including a competitive Europe in the economic field. I would like to add that we also strive to build a Europe that offers more cooperation on current issues like migration and security. Concerning the enlargement of the European Union, the accession of the Western Balkans remains a high priority for us. As long as the Western Balkans are not a member of the European Union, Europe is incomplete to us.

Thank you for the interview.