Bilateral discussions between Malta and Austria

Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg is currently on an official visit in Vienna, Austria, for bilateral discussions with Minister for European and International Affairs of Austria Alexander Schallenberg.

 During the meeting, Minister Borg said that while the two countries enjoy excellent bilateral relations, there is still room to improve and strengthen these relations in the future, particularly in light of the neutrality clause that both countries embrace. The two Ministers agreed that it is an honour that the two nations have both served as points of discussion for peace talks and will continue to see this role sustained and enhanced.

On the agenda for these discussions were the latest developments and the various escalations we are witnessing in Europe’s vicinity. Malta and Austria concurred that these challenges require more multilateral discussions, primarily within the framework of the United Nations. The two countries emphasised their belief that these issues can only be resolved through peaceful dialogue and not through armed conflicts or military means.

Malta and Austria also discussed how they can further collaborate, particularly in the cultural field, with the aim of benefiting both nations. Immigration and the growth of the European Union were also topics discussed during this meeting.

It should be noted that this meeting was also preparatory for other upcoming meetings that will take place in the near future between the two countries.

During his visit to Austria, Minister Ian Borg also met with the staff of the Maltese Embassy and Permanent Mission in Vienna, led by Ambassador Natasha Meli Daudey, and expressed his gratitude for the excellent work they are doing on behalf of our country.

Minister Ian Borg also met with the Secretary General of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Helga Schmidt, where they discussed security and cooperation-related matters, as well as the future of OSCE. During this meeting, a contribution from the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade was also announced for a project that will incorporate the use of technology to address human trafficking.

Minister Borg also had a meeting with the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, where they discussed the use of nuclear technology for peaceful means. During this meeting, an agreement was signed, and the contribution of the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade towards the IAEA’s ‘Rays of Hope’ initiative was announced.