Minister of Europe and Constitutional Karoline Edtstadler (ÖVP) assured Israel of Austria’s support during a visit. The reason for the trip is the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the state and networking in the fight against anti-Semitism. “Supporting Israel and the Jews is our duty, our responsibility. That is part of our state political DNA,” Edtstadler emphasized.
On Sunday, the minister spoke at the opening of the “Global Forum” of the international NGO American Jewish Committee (AJC). During her visit, she also met President Yitzhak Herzog.
“It’s part of our state political DNA”
“When Jews are under pressure, our democracy and our liberal society are under pressure. It is our historic responsibility to protect and promote Jewish life – in Austria, in Europe and worldwide. And to support Israel as a sovereign state when needed,” Edtstadler said, according to the text of the speech. “Supporting Israel and the Jews is our duty, our responsibility. It is part of our national political DNA.”
“We cannot make amends for the crimes committed by Austrians under the Nazi regime,” Edtstadler said. “But what we can promise – and what I will promise again today – is that we will do everything we can to protect Jews from anti-Semitism.”
After her meeting with President Herzog, Edtstadler wrote on Twitter: “Relations between Israel and Austria have never been stronger than they are today. Austria’s commitment to the Jewish and democratic state of Israel is based on our historic responsibility.”
According to Edtstadler, Austria is at the forefront of the fight against anti-Semitism in Europe with its national strategy against anti-Semitism. But that doesn’t mean we can rest. Society as a whole is needed in the fight against anti-Semitism.”
Edtstadler wants to meet Secretary of State Eli Cohen on Monday. On Tuesday, the minister wants to hand over a returned painting by Anton Romako from the Albertina to the rightful heiress of a Shoah victim. At Ben-Gurion University in Be’er Sheva, the minister of Europe wants to talk to students about current issues of European politics.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
