In his New Year’s speech, Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen encourages people to think about “a very fundamental question”. “Namely: which country do we want to live in?” There is a lot of uncertainty, unclear and confusing. “But we need a common vision of what our country should look like.”
“An idea from Austria and the will to shape this Austria,” Van der Bellen emphasizes in the speech that will be broadcast on Wednesday evening. A task for the coming years.
Government negotiations as a “test of patience”
He believes in a country in the middle of Europe that knows “not to allow conflicts to end in an incompatible way, but rather to unite opposites,” said the Austrian head of state.
He compared, among other things, the current government negotiations with the reconciliation of interests in families. Around New Year’s Eve you can make plans for the future and focus on important matters.
Finding common solutions “could also be a test of patience for all of us.”
Creating prosperity for citizens
He also believes in the Austrian wealth of culture and nature. Through a sustainable economy, Austria can create lasting prosperity for all citizens. Van der Bellen also mentioned a fair and “knowledge society with global competitiveness”.
People need to know ‘that their efforts are worthwhile’.
Security and peace are the goal
As a member of the European Union, the president wants to be “aware of the benefits of an alliance of 450 million people.” His wish is an Austria “whose great goal is security and peace.” For Van der Bellen, this also includes strengthening defensive capabilities.
“This is the Austria I want to live in,” he summarized his ideas. Finally, the 80-year-old invited listeners to think about other things “that shape and will shape our country.”
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.
