Transport

Due to her geographical location and the importance of external trade for Austria, transport issues are highly relevant for Austrian foreign policy. To be connected to European and international transport infrastructures as well as ecologically sustainable transport policies are crucial for the economic opportunities, the mobility and the quality of life of Austrians. The Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs, along with the Ministry of Transport, Innovation and Technology, preserves Austria’s concerning transport interests both to neighbouring states and globally.

The Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Transport, Innovation and Technology jointly negotiate bilateral air service agreements. Provisions resulting from such agreements are fundamental for Austria’s connection to international air traffic and strengthen Austria’s position as a globally competitive business location.

Well-built road and railway infrastructures are an important precondition for growth. Therefore the Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs, in close coordination with the Ministry of Transport, Innovation and Technology keeps regular contact with Austria’s neighbouring states with the aim to modernise and extend bilateral road and railway infrastructures in consideration of creating an environmentally friendly and sustainable transport system.

On EU level, the Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs, in close cooperation with the Ministry of Transport, advocates a modern EU transport policy with high safety and environmental standards not only within the EU but also towards third states.

Austria is a member of several International Organizations which operate within the field of international transport policy. The Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs accompanies processes in international forums, e.g. at the Internationale Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Danube Commission (DC).