“The world is not black and white”: Austrian Foreign Minister calls for dialogue with Russia
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Austria Alexander Schallenberg emphasized that it is necessary to maintain a dialogue with Russia in certain areas, even if it is not possible to discuss ending the war against Ukraine. That’s what he’s about stated in an interview with the ARA news agency.
When asked if Shallenberg still believes that dialogue with Russia should be pursued, he confirmed his position: “Undoubtedly.”
“The world is not black and white. We need Russia, for example, in the issue of climate. Russia is a member of the OSCE, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which, as before, is of decisive importance on the European continent,” he added.
Commenting on Russia’s war against Ukraine, the minister noted that its conclusion is possible only at the negotiating table, and these negotiations make sense only when both parties participate in them. He admitted that currently Russia does not show readiness for a serious dialogue on ending the conflict, but expressed hope that the situation will change over time.
At the same time, the Austrian authorities are ready to provide their territory for negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, provided that these negotiations will take place without any prior requirements and on the basis of equality. Earlier, Shallenberg categorically rejected any calls for Ukraine to give up part of its territories in exchange for peace with Russia, considering such proposals unacceptable.
