Austria’s Foreign Minister Supports Two-State Solution

(MENAFN) Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger reaffirmed Vienna's commitment to a two-state solution Friday, drawing a firm line against any unilateral moves that could permanently foreclose the prospect of Palestinian statehood — following a direct call with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar.

"Austria continues to advocate for a two-state solution. No facts may be created that make the two-state solution de facto impossible and undermine a peace perspective," Meinl-Reisinger wrote on X, the US-based social media platform owned by Elon Musk.

The two ministers discussed a broad regional agenda, with Iran and Lebanon featuring prominently in their exchange. Meinl-Reisinger voiced explicit backing for direct bilateral negotiations between Beirut and Jerusalem, signaling Austrian support for diplomatic engagement over confrontation.

Civilian protection also ranked high on her agenda. The foreign minister stressed that "the safety of the civilian population on all sides as well as the protection of international, including Austrian, troops have the highest priority."

In a notable departure from the call's weightier themes, Meinl-Reisinger also welcomed Israel's participation in Eurovision 2026, framing the contest as an opportunity for cross-cultural engagement. She described the competition as a platform for "cultural understanding, music, and love."

The remarks reflect Austria's effort to maintain balanced diplomatic engagement amid an increasingly volatile regional landscape.

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