Austrian FM Schallenberg Explains What Russia Means to Modern Europe

The new Austrian government, formed in January, previously stated in its programme there is a need for the gradual lifting of sanctions against Russia. Vienna also noted it would continue to promote direct ties with Moscow via the Sochi Dialogue.

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg has stated in an interview with Wiener Zeitung that good ties with Russia are a key part of European stability and that the bloc should not be engaged in conflict with Moscow.

Answering a question about Russia being a part of Western society, the minister stressed there had been such hgh hopes, but “Moscow has chosen its own path”.

August 18, 2018. Russian President Vladimir Putin gives flowers to Austrian Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl during her wedding to entrepreneur Wolfgang Meilinger, left

Schallenberg also called for dialogue between Russia and Europe.

Relations between Moscow and the EU became tense in the wake of the conflict in eastern Ukraine and the referendum in Crimea, during which over 90 percent of voters supported reunification with Russia. The bloc, however, has accused the Kremlin of interfering in Ukrainian internal affairs and introduced sanctions against Russia. Moscow denied the meddling claims and imposed countersanctions in retaliation.

At the same time, some EU countries, including Austria, have repeatedly questioned the effectiveness of the sanctions amid financial and economic losses. Various Austrian politicians have voiced the need to halt the restrictions and revive talks with Moscow.

Sourse: sputniknews.com