Austrian National Day was celebrated on 25 October 2024 by the Embassy of Austria in Pretoria. H.E. Mrs Romana Königsbrun welcomed members of the Diplomatic Corps and distinguished guests to the event.
Thanking the vocalists and their conductor for their rendition of the two national anthems, as well as the jazz trio, H.E. Mrs Königsbrun remarked:
“Music is always a great investment.”
Austria is strengthening its diplomatic ties with Africa. The Austrian Foreign Minister, Mr Alexander Schallenberg, recently inaugurated a new embassy in Ghana and, only a few months ago, opened Austria’s first cultural office in Sub-Saharan Africa, located in Pretoria.
Austria’s foreign policy is deeply rooted in the values of democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights. South Africa remains Austria’s most important economic partner in Africa, with bilateral trade amounting to approximately 1.5 billion euros. One in 70 Austrian subsidiaries operates in South Africa, creating over 8,000 jobs.
Highlighting Austria’s commitment to sustainability, the Austrian family-owned company Alpla, a global leader in sustainable packaging, recently opened a state-of-the-art packaging plant near Lanseria in Johannesburg, investing nearly 50 million euros. Furthermore, Alpla is set to open a new recycling plant in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal, a 70-million-euro investment poised to sustain 10,000 livelihoods in the region and across the recycling chain.
The recent visit of Foreign Minister Schallenberg to a business forum in Pretoria has brought renewed energy to bilateral relations. The next round of consultations, led by Deputy Minister Alvin Botes and his Austrian counterpart, is scheduled for December in Vienna.
In 2025, Austria anticipates a milestone in its bilateral relations with South Africa through the visit of Austrian President H.E. Mr Alexander Van der Bellen.
Austria boasts a strong industrial base, investing heavily in innovation and research while cherishing traditional methods of production. To foster greater people-to-people connections, Austria has expanded its leadership programme, which brings aspiring leaders from the region to Austria. A newly initiated scholarship programme in arts and culture will now offer fully funded internships for South Africans in renowned cultural institutions in Vienna.
Pieter Groenewald, South Africa’s Minister of Correctional Services, extended congratulations to the Austrian people on behalf of the South African government and its citizens.
Reflecting on Austria’s history, he highlighted its declaration of permanent neutrality in 1955, which marked the country’s return to full sovereignty. The State Treaty ended foreign occupation, establishing Austria as an independent, peaceful, and neutral state—a commitment to peace and diplomacy that remains central to Austria’s identity.
Austria’s contributions to the arts, sciences, and culture are globally recognised. From its legacy of creativity and architecture to its leadership in sustainability and environmental protection, Austria reminds the world that progress must align with respect for the natural world.
“Our nations share not only diplomatic and economic ties but also a deep cultural exchange and mutual respect,” said Minister Groenewald.
The event concluded with a toast to the Presidents and the prosperity and happiness of the Austrian and South African people.
by Marion Kate
