Interim Chancellor Schallenberg on Inaugural Visit to Brussels: "My Message is Clear"

The EU Parliament "continues to count on Austria as a reliable partner," Metsola emphasized after the exchange on the online platform X. Schallenberg also assured on X: "Austria is & remains a reliable and strong partner in #Europe and the world!"

Afterwards, Schallenberg was expected at the EU Commission by EU Foreign Representative Kaja Kallas. Before returning to Vienna, an exchange with Council President Antonio Costa is planned.

Schallenberg and Metsola Commented

"On the occasion of Austria's 30 years of EU membership, we discussed how the EU can continue to be the answer to people's concerns," Metsola explained after the exchange on the online platform X. The start of coalition negotiations between the traditionally EU-critical FPÖ and the ÖVP and a possible Federal Chancellor Herbert Kickl had caused concern in numerous EU capitals.

"I consciously start my term with a trip to Brussels," Schallenberg emphasized on Monday on X. "My message is clear: Austria is and remains a reliable and strong partner in Europe and the world!", he reaffirmed. "We will continue to actively engage at the European and international level. It is essential in these challenging times to find common solutions and strengthen Europe's ability to act. In terms of foreign and security policy, you can continue to fully rely on Austria," the interim chancellor explained before his inaugural visit.

Phone Call Before Inaugural Visit to Brussels

Schallenberg had already spoken with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday. The Commission President is currently still working from home due to her illness. According to the EU Commission, she is expected to make a public appearance again at the end of this week.

(APA/Red)

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