MFA Press Statement: Visit of Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo to the Republic of Austria, 7 - 9 April 2008

Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo visited the Republic of Austria as part of his current tour of Central Europe. He met with Federal President Dr Heinz Fischer, Federal Chancellor Dr Alfred Gusenbauer and Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Dr Ursula Plassnik on 8 April 2008.

During his meeting with President Fischer, Minister Yeo reaffirmed the warm bilateral ties between Singapore and Austria and agreed that their two countries should explore ways for closer cooperation at a time when both regions presented many opportunities. They spoke on developments in Asia, including ASEAN integration and the situation in Myanmar; as well as current developments in Europe, including the Kosovo issue. International issues of common interest such as the prospects of inter-civilisational dialogue, the Iran nuclear issue and the situation on the Korean Peninsula were also raised.

Minister Yeo paid a courtesy call on Chancellor Dr Gusenbauer. They discussed developments in Singapore and its economic prospects, as well as developments in Austria and Europe, including the debate over the EU's Lisbon Treaty.

Minister Yeo also had an in-depth exchange of views in a private meeting with Minister Plassnik, who hosted him to lunch. The two Foreign Ministers talked about recent developments in Asia, noting the impact the situation in Tibet had on public opinion and the importance of Europe's long-term relations with China. Also discussed were developments in Europe, including the EU, Central Europe and the Balkans. On the issue of dialogue amongst cultures and religions, Minister Yeo shared Singapore's experiences and proposed avenues for greater collaboration with Austria in this field. Ministers Yeo and Plassnik also exchanged views on global issues of mutual concern, including the Iran nuclear issue.

Minister Yeo will travel to the Slovak Republic for the next leg of his visit on 9 April 2008.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
9 APRIL 2008