Malaysia, Austria seek closer ties ahead of 65 years of diplomatic relations

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 — Austria and Malaysia are determined to enhance their bilateral ties across a wide range of sectors, including diplomacy, regional cooperation, commerce, investment, education, and culture, as they gear up to mark 65 years of diplomatic relations next year. Gerhard Eisl, Austria's Ambassador to Malaysia, emphasized that the two nations share common values and are like-minded partners on various global issues, particularly in promoting peace, dialogue, multilateralism, and international cooperation.

He noted that Malaysia is a crucial partner for Austria, with strong bilateral relations, particularly in multilateral forums such as disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation efforts, as well as more intimate bilateral cooperation.

Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan expressed confidence in the enduring friendship between the two nations. Eisl highlighted that Austria and Malaysia are both peace-loving countries strategically located at the heart of their respective regions – Austria in the center of Europe and Malaysia in the midst of Southeast Asia.

They are deepening their relations across various sectors, including foreign policy, regional cooperation, business, universities, and culture. Several initiatives are being planned to celebrate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

Eisl described Malaysia as an important market for Austrian businesses, underscoring that trade and investment remain the foundation of bilateral relations. He acknowledged the contributions of Austrian companies in Malaysia to strengthening economic ties. Eisl also stressed Austria's commitment to international peace and security, recalling the country's permanent neutrality declared on October 26, 1955 and enshrined in its constitution.

This decision means military neutrality, not indifference, and Austria stands for international law and human rights, being a country of peace, dialogue, and trust.

He noted that Austria's commitment to assuming greater responsibility in international affairs is increasingly vital amid the resurgence of power politics, wars, and armed conflicts that are challenging the rules-based international order. In this context, Eisl appreciated Malaysia's support for Austria's candidacy as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term, along with 130 other UN member states.

"Thanks to the support of 131 UN member states, including Malaysia, Austria has been elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the period 2027-2028," he said. Austria plans to use its position to promote multilateralism and represent the interests of smaller and medium-sized countries, as well as vulnerable communities, particularly civilians and children affected by armed conflicts.