Austria Charts Future Foreign Policy Course at Diplomatic Summit
Vienna, austria – Austria convened over 100 diplomats from around the globe in early September for the Botschafterkonferenz (BOKO), a key conference focused on shaping the nation’s future foreign policy strategy. Held in Vienna, the summit prioritized bolstering Austria’s competitive edge as an industrial hub and strengthening its role on the international stage.
The Foreign Ministry, through the “ReFocus Austria” initiative, aims to function as a “door opener, networker, and advocate” for the Austrian economy. Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger highlighted the crucial role of diplomats as a “red-white-red safety net,” notably vital amidst escalating geopolitical crises and trade disputes. She emphasized a guiding principle of “partnership, trust, and openness to dialogue,” extending to Austria’s candidacy for a seat on the UN Security Council in 2027/28. State Secretary Schellhorn underscored the direct link between ambassadorial work and the growth of Austria’s export economy.
A public economic segment of the conference featured keynotes from both Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger and Univ.-Prof. MMag. Dr. Harald Oberhofer, an expert in international economics and trade policy from the WIFO (Austrian Institute of Economic Research).
Running concurrently with BOKO was the annual Foreign culture Conference (AKT), which centered on the importance of Austrian cultural diplomacy. The AKT explored the power of art and culture in fostering intercultural understanding and creating “spaces of freedom.” State Secretary Schellhorn stressed the importance of international partnerships as a demonstration of Austria’s commitment against growing cultural isolation, with keynote speaker Inna Shevchenko, co-founder of FEMEN, symbolizing a dedication to freedom of art and science.
Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger described cultural diplomacy as a “powerful engine” for dialogue and understanding, rather than simply a “business card.” Both conferences collectively demonstrate Austria’s proactive approach to navigating a changing global landscape, with security, defense policy, and global competitiveness remaining central to Austrian foreign policy in the coming months.
