The British Embassy in Austria is part of a Global Network of embassies and other posts delivering the FCO’s essential services and policy goals. As part of this network, we are guided by the FCO’s mission statement: ‘Better World, Better Britain’.

 

An important partnership

 

Our political section works with other parts of the Embassy to promote close co-operation between Austria and the UK on a wide range of issues of mutual interest. Austria is an important partner in helping the UK achieve many of its international priorities. These include countering terrorism and weapons proliferation, preventing conflict, protecting Human Rights, and addressing complex global issues like climate change, overseas development and immigration.

 

Bi- and Multilateral cooperation

 

Most of this co-operation involves direct bilateral contact, even though much of it is ultimately delivered through international institutions like the EU and UN. In every case, building the necessary understanding and co-operation requires excellent links and close dialogue with decision-makers and opinion formers in Austria.

 

To deliver this, the Embassy:

• supports regular contact between British and Austrian politicians and officials, including Ministerial and other expert visits in either direction, for example State Secretary Hans Winkler visited London in March 2008
• represents British views on bilateral and foreign policy issues to Austrian decision-makers, for example explaining and seeking support for the UK’s position on Burma, the Balkans and the Millennium Development Goals
• informs ministries in London and other overseas posts of Austrian thinking on key issues, for example explaining Austria’s position on EU enlargement, or the role of sanctions in Iran
• analyses political and economic developments in Austria, for example election results or predictions, examining the thinking behind Austrian initiatives on climate change or counter terrorism
• works closely with officials in the Foreign Ministry, Chancellery and other Federal Ministries and stays in frequent contact with Federal and regional politicians, for example exchanges of experience on Justice and Policing issues and   discussions ahead of regional elections
• maintains regular contact with other parts of Austrian society, including non-governmental organisations, faith groups, the media, academia and others involved in the development of Austrian policies and public opinion, for example the A mbassador has briefings with the media, and there are regular discussions with faith communities on integration and tolerance
• undertakes joint work with these groups and individuals, ranging from projects and formal consultations to informal discussions to share information, good practice and views. For example there are joint projects with faith communities to promote interfaith dialogue.