THE Philippines and Austria reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations during a meeting at the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs in Vienna, as both nations prepare to mark 80 years of diplomatic ties in 2026.
The meeting between the Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, and Austrian Minister for European and International Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger covered a wide range of cooperation areas, including trade and investment, labor, education, life sciences, and artificial intelligence. Both sides also exchanged views on regional and global issues affecting ASEAN and Europe, highlighting the importance of collaboration in navigating political and economic uncertainties.
The officials underscored that the Philippines-Austria partnership is reinforced by cooperation in multilateral forums where the two countries support each other’s causes and candidacies in the United Nations and other international organizations.
The Austrian Minister expressed interest in acceding to the Asean Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), a move welcomed by the Philippines as it prepares for its Asean chairmanship in 2026. Lazaro also acknowledged Austria’s support for the earliest conclusion of a Philippines-EU Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to open new opportunities for economic cooperation.
Both officials emphasized shared values such as the promotion of the rule of law and multilateralism, describing themselves as like-minded partners in advancing stability and inclusivity in international relations.
A press engagement following the meeting highlighted the contribution of the Filipino community in Austria, particularly in the health care sector. Thirteen Filipinos working in the country were invited to the event, including Rose Maria Somera, a retired nurse who shared her experience of living and working in Vienna for 50 years. She first arrived in 1974 under a government-to-government agreement, symbolizing the enduring people-to-people ties between the two nations.
The Philippines and Austria will celebrate the 80th anniversary of their diplomatic relations on Oct. 17, 2026.