Eu Council Presidency July-December 2018

EU COUNCIL PRESIDENCY JULY-DECEMBER 2018

ACTIVITIES / EVENTS OF THE AUSTRIAN EMBASSY IN ATHENS

Piraeus, „Athens greets Vienna“ event in view of the upcoming Austrian Presidency of the Council of the EU, 29th June

On Friday 29th of June the “Athens greets Vienna” event took place at the Greek Yacht Club „Naytikos Omilos Ellados“ under the patronage of the cities of Athens and Vienna. This event was organised as always by the Society of former Greek students in Austria - SEFA, which has recently included the Friends of Austria. Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm highlighted the importance of the SEFA as a bridge builder between Greece and Austria and as a symbol of “unity in diversity”, particularly during the Austrian Presidency of the Council of the EU. This event rich in tradition became yet again a memorable night for all guests.

Nafplio / Koroni / Thessaloniki: „European Ensemble“, 1st, 2nd and 4th July

During the Austrian-Greek Music Summer 2018, Prof. Uwe Matscke (piano), Prof. Dr. Kerstin Fletz (violoncello) and Danae Papamattheou-Matschke (violin) performed as the “European Ensemble” at three venues: on 1st July at Nafplion Festival, on 2nd July at Koroni Festival and on 4th July at Moni Lazariston Festival. The trio thrilled the numerous spectators with the professionally and emotionally performed melodies of Wolfgang

©Austrian Embassy Athens, from left: Filip Ikic, Danae Amadeus Mozart, Georg Aranyi-Aschner, Papamattheou-Matschke, Dr. Kerstin Feltz, Yannis Vakarelis Yannis Constantinidis and Ludwig van (Nafplion Festival Artistic Director), Andrea Ikic-Böhm st (Austrian Ambassador), Prof. Uwe Matschke Beethoven. The concert on 1 July also marked the beginning of the Austrian EU Council Presidency - in the first capital of Greece and in the first Greek parliament, “Vouleftiko”.

Athens, EU-HoMs Lunch with the Greek Minister for Foreign Affairs Nikolaos KOTZIAS, 4th July

On 4th July H.E. the Greek Minister for Foreign Affairs Nikolaos KOTZIAS - at the invitation of Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm as the local representative of the EU Council Presidency - did the honour of attending a meeting at the Ambassador’s residence with the www.mfa.gr Ambassadors of EU Member States, EFTA and Western Balkans / Southeastern Europe accredited to Athens. H.E. Minister Kotzias elaborated on his numerous foreign policy initiatives and discussed issues related to the neighboring region of Greece as well as global issues.

Athens: ANA-MPA interview with Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm, 5th July

The ANA-MPA Greek magazine “Praktorio” published on 5th July a two- page interview with Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm, in which topics, such as the work of the Austrian Embassy Athens, the importance of cultural exchange, the program of the Austrian EU Council Presidency and the Austrian identity based on neutrality and multilateralism as well as the personal experiences of the Ambassador in Greece were illuminated in detail.

Athens, Conference: "The European Union at the foreground: Consultation on the Future of Europe and Public Administration", 5th July

Matters concerning the future of Europe are also an important part of the program of the Austrian EU Council Presidency. Under the motto "A Europe that protects", Austria wants to help restore the citizens' trust in the EU. The EU should focus on the big issues that need a common solution and back up

© EKDDA, from left: Vassilis Hatzopoulos (Professor of European Law and on small issues. For this Politics at Pantion University), presenter: Pavlos Tsimas (journalist), Prof. reason Ambassador Andrea George Katrougalos (Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs), Andrea Ikic- Böhm (Austrian Ambassador) Ikic-Böhm thanked H.E. Alternate Minister for Foreign Affairs (responsible for European Affairs) George Katrougalos for the invitation to participate in the joint panel at the Civic Consultation Conference which was opened by H.E. President of the Hellenic Republic Prokopios V. Pavlopoulos on 5 July. Following her speech on current challenges and opportunities in the EU, she had an interesting discussion with the representatives of the Greek administration. Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm emphasized the joint responsibility to bring Europe closer to its citizens.

Mani / Koroni / Ancient Messini / Kalamata: DANUBIA SYMPHONIC WINDS, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th July

During the Austrian-Greek Music Summer 2018 the brass orchestra „Danubia Symphonic Winds“, consisting of 41 musicians, performed at four venues: on 5th July in Mani Sonnenlink, on 6th July at Koroni

Festival in Koroni, on 7th July in the ancient Messini and finally on 8th July in Kalamata. The symphonic brass orchestra is the result of a cooperative project of five music schools from Klosterneuburg, the Wagram region, Sieghartskirchen, Traismauer and Tulln in Lower Austria, offering young and engaged musicians the chance to perform in extraordinary ways, thereby presenting symphonic brass music to a large audience in their home regions and beyond. The numerous spectators were particularly impressed by the joint performance of the Orchestra of Lower Austria with Greek musicians and a Greek choir – entirely inspired by the European idea.

©Austrian Embassy Athens: Minister Georgios ©Austrian Embassy Athens, from left: Municipal Katrougalos, Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm Councilor Christina Athanasopoulou, SEFA President Konstantinos Katsikas, Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm, Mayor Giorgos Tsonis, President of the Greek National Opera Athanassios Theodoropoulos

Athens: Information evening event for Austrians living in Greece and SEFA, 9th July On 9th July Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm invited the Austrians living in Greece as well as members of the Association of former Greek students in Austria (SEFA) to her residence for an information evening event. During this event the Austrian EU Council Presidency program was presented to the guests. Following this, Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm responded to questions posed by the guests and a lively discussion took place.

Athens, Press Conference on the presentation of the program of the Austrian EU Council Presidency, 10th July

There was considerable interest in the press conference on the presentation of the Austrian EU Council Presidency program on 10 July in the premises of the European Parliament's Representation in Greece. In addition to numerous diplomatic representatives, a large number of Greek and international media representatives were present. After the opening remarks of the Director-General of the European Commission George Markopouliotis and of the European Parliament in Greece, Leonidas Antonakopoulos, as well as of the Bulgarian charge d’ affaires a.i. Vesellin Ivanov, who symbolically handed over the Council Presidency to Austria, Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm took the floor. Following this, she presented the priorities of the Austrian EU Council Presidency under the motto "A Europe that protects" and then responded to questions posed by media representatives.

Article: http://www.ert.gr/ert-protaseis/ert1-europe-30-162/#

Athens, EU consular cooperation meeting, 11th July

On 11 July an EU consular cooperation meeting took place in the premises of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, co-organized by the Austrian Embassy as the local representative authority of the Austrian EU Council Presidency under the motto “A Europe that protects”. In her introductory words Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm emphasized the importance of consular work to provide EU citizens with the best possible protection and service. Co- operation among the EU embassies also plays an important role. Many consular staff members of EU Embassies heard the speeches of representatives of the Greek Civil Protection Unit, the Greek Police and the Greek Ministry of Health. The Embassy

©Austrian Embassy Athens: Alexandra Mantzila (1. Embassy Counselor, Head of the crisis management unit), Christoph Reitinger (Austrian Consul in Athens) expressly thanks the Greek Foreign Ministry for making this meeting possible.

Athens: Radio interview with Athina 9.84, 11th July

The radio station Athina 9.84 broadcast on 11th July an extensive interview with the Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm, whereby numerous topics were addressed. The Ambassador not only commented on the generally good Greek-Austrian relations, but also addressed everyday political issues. In particular, she provided an overview of the priorities of the Austrian EU Council Presidency as well as the Austrian views on European migration policy. Moreover, Austria's role as bridge builder and supportive power for the Western Balkans and Southeastern Europe was discussed.

Tinos / Paros: Jazz concert with Turumtay-Zaric, 13th & 14th July

©Vassilis Podaras, Takis Farazis, Petros Varthakouris

Efe Turumtay (violin) and Nikola Zarić (accordion) thrilled the audience with two concerts of the highest artistic quality within the framework of the Austrian-Greek Music Summer 2018. In Tinos they virtuously played their own compositions with "Balkan-Jazz" sounds on 13th July and intermingled so brilliantly that their melodies ©Austrian Embassy Athens: Takis Farazis, Nikola Zarić and Efe sometimes merged into a Turumtay: Rehearsal in Paros single voice - a symbol of harmony for relationships between people and countries. The concert in Paros took place on 14th July at Paros Park, where Turumtay-Zaric performed at first as a duo and – after two compositions performed by the Takis Farazis Trio – all musicians performed together as a quintet. After only one hour of a joint rehearsal, the Austrian duo and the Greek trio came together so impressively that they collaborated to bring their respective compositions into the musical starry sky. The Turumtay-Zaric Duo is part of the „New Austrian Sound of Music“ (NASOM) initiative, which ©Austrian Embassy Athens is supported by Federal Ministry Europe, Integration

and Foreign Affairs.

Visit of the Shadow Foreign Minister and Member of Parliament George Koumoutsakos, 16th July

On 16th July Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm welcomed the Shadow Foreign Minister and Member of Parliament George Koumoutsakos to the Embassy and had an in- depth discussion with him on the priorities of the Austrian EU Council Presidency as well as on other current foreign policy issues of common interest.

©Austrian Embassy Athens

Crete, Conference of Women Entrepreneurs, 25th July

At the invitation of the Region of Crete Ambassador Andrea Ikic- Böhm gave a speech on 25th July on "Female Entrepreneurship in Austria and beyond" during the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce Conference on "Cosmopolitanism: A Growth Engine" within the framework of “Women's Week 2018". Ambassador Andrea Ikic- Böhm prompted to acknowledge the achievements of women in the economic sector and in this regard mentioned the Austrian Honorary Consul in Crete Roswitha Badouvas-Walch as one of these women. In this context, Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm also emphasized the importance that the Austrian EU Council Presidency attaches to gender equality in the EU, which should also be strengthened and institutionalized in the EU agenda: "We want to have an open, future-oriented dialogue on gender equality,"said Ambassador Ikic-Böhm.

Athens, Consular meeting, 25th July

On 25th July 2018 a briefing on the forest fires in the Attica region took place on the initiative of the Austrian Embassy Athens as the local representative of the Austrian EU Council Presidency and the Crisis Management Unit of the Greek Foreign Ministry, where Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm expressed her condolences to Greece and the families of all victims. All people present were profoundly

©Austrian Embassy Athens: affected and shocked by the devastating consequences of Alexandra Mantzila (1. Embassy the forest fires. Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm thanked Counselor, Head of the Crisis Management Unit), Christoph the Head of the Crisis Management Unit Alexandra Reitinger (Austrian Consul in Mantzila for the excellent cooperation. Athens)

Athens, Visit to Secretary General for Digital Policy Stelios Rallis, 27th July

On 27th July the Austrian Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm visited the Secretary General for Digital Policy Stelios Rallis at the Ministry of Digital Policy, Telecommunications and Media and congratulated him on his important post, which he had taken up in August 2017. The discussion topics included the priorities of the Austrian EU Council Presidency with emphasis on ©Austrian Embassy Athens: Secretary-General for Digital digitalisation and the positive Policy Stelios Rallis, Austrian Ambassador Andrea Ikic- Böhm opportunities that a common digital market in Europe opens for all EU citizens.

Skopelos / Skiathos: Concert of "Die Wandervögel", 22nd, 25th & 26th August “Die Wandervögel” - Bryan Benner (mandolin, vocals and guitar), David Stellner (guitar and vocals) and Raphael Widmann (violin and vocals) - revived ancient, often already forgotten songs in the best “Zupfgeigenhansel” tradition on 22 August in Skopelos during „Diamantis Paleologos” dance festival and on 25th and 26th August in Skiathos. The two concerts in Skiathos were performed at Hotel “Atrium” as well as in the historical Evangelistria Monastery. The program included German, Austrian or Yiddish folk songs from the 17th until the 20th century. In Skopelos "Die Wandervögel” added a Greek folk © Austrian Embassy Athens, die Wandervögel and Deputy Head of Mission Dr. Martina Hermann song to their repertoire.

Both concerts in Skiathos were supported by the cultural association "SKIATHOS" and the family of Andreas Potamianos.

The trio is part of the program „New Austrian Sound of Music“ (NASOM), funded by the Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs.

Mani, Kalamata, Athens, Chamber Music Academy and concerts of the string ensemble "Strings in Motion", 23rd, 24th, 26th, 28th and 30th August

The Austrian-Greek Strings Academy "Strings in Motion" gave 5 concerts in Greece: on 23rd and 24th August in Mani (Sonnenlink), on 26th August and 28th August in Kalamata and finally on 30th August at Gennadius Library in Athens. This final concert of the Austrian-Greek Music Summer took place in cooperation with the "Association of the Friends of the Gennadius Library" and with the support of the "SCHWARZ FOUNDATION" and Dr. med. Martha Walther-Bauer. The numerous guests, including the Director-General for European Affairs in the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ioannis A. Metaxas, experienced a musical journey with compositions ranging from Mozart to Skalkottas at an extraordinary place that impressed the guests. During this musical journey the audience was especially thrilled by the very young soloists. All in all it was a very special evening, highlighting the friendship between Austria and Greece which was felt both by the young musicians and the audience.

Information on the Chamber Music Academy for Strings „Strings in Motion“:

This innovative artistic-educational project presents masterclasses, workshops and concerts, giving participants and listeners a unique insight into the creative work of musical interpretation. The aim of the master classes is to offer students and graduates of violin, viola and cello an expansion of their repertoire, an improvement of technical and musical knowledge as well as experience in ensemble playing. The centre of the project are the Tyrolean State Conservatory and the University Mozarteum Salzburg. It takes place twice a year: in summer in Greece under the patronage and with the support of the Austrian Embassy in Athens and in winter in Toblach (South Tyrol) with the support of the Tyrolean and South Tyrolean provincial governments. Since 2015 the project has been generously funded by Dr. med. Martha Walther-Bauer. In addition to the concerts listed here, seminars and master classes were held in Mani from 17 until 24 August 2018 and in Kalamata from 25 until 28 August 2018. Artistic Director: Christos Kanettis. Teachers: Christos Kanettis (violin, viola & chamber music), Anita Mitterer (violin, viola & string quartet), Florian Simma (cello & chamber music).

Information: www.facebook.com/AustrianGreekMusicSummer2018, www.konstirol.at and on the websites of the event organizers.

The Austrian-Greek Strings Academy "Strings in Motion" was supported - among others - by Mani-Sonnenlink and Bläuel Greek Organic Products.

Over the years, the organic pioneer Bläuel Greek Organic Products with the Mani olive oil, which is famous in Austria, has become a center of encounter and culture: the bio-hotel and music company Mani-Sonnenlink. "Vacationing at the source of Mani olive oil, the only bio-hotel in Greece," said the founder of Mani-Sonnenlink Burgi Bläuel. For further information: www.mani.bio, www.mani-sonnenlink.com

Thessaloniki, CHEAPART at the 83rd Thessaloniki International Fair, 8th-16th September

The Mayor of Thessaloniki Giannis Boutaris and the Vice-Mayor Elli Chrysidou were present at the opening of the highly successful exhibition CHEAPART that took place at Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) for the fifth time this year.

The non-profit cultural organization CHEAPART, founded by Dimitris and George Georgakopoulos in 1995, once again presented remarkable works of contemporary art with curators and artists from eight countries.

As part of the European Exhibition Network, CHEAPART promotes the exchange between the local contemporary art scene and the international art community.

The event was under the auspices of the Austrian Embassy Athens.

Austrian curators: Agnes Tatzber, Sarah Klimbacher, Christian Rupp Works by the Austrian artist Marion Fischer Austrian artists: Marion Fischer, Anna Reschl, (from the project "BOX DROPS") Sarah Langoth

Athens, Courtesy visit of the Parliamentary Secretary Giannis Kefalogiannis, 10th September

On 10th September Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm welcomed the Parliamentary Secretary and MP of ND Giannis Kefalogiannis to the Austrian Embassy. The priorities and events during the Austrian Presidency of the EU Council as well as the current developments in Greece were discussed.

Athens, Courtesy visit to the newly appointed Minister of Justice Michalis Kalogirou, 19th September

Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm paid a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Greek Minister of Justice H.E. Michalis Kalogirou on 19th September and congratulated the Minister on taking office. Their meeting included a discussion on the modern challenges to judicial systems as well as an EU-sponsored joint project between the two countries, which has been running since 2015 in order to provide technical support for the reform of the Greek judicial system, particularly in the field of digitalization, the third phase of which has started recently. © Austrian Embassy Athens

Athens, EUNIC Event on the occasion of the European Day of Languages, 22nd September

Photo above: Stephanie Thiele (PDV President), Christina Ruttner (Head of the ÖSD Institute), Dr. Martina Hermann (Austrian Embassy Athens), Director Martin Scharnhorst, Dr. Elfriede Damalas (VÖG President)

On the occasion of the European Day of Languages, the EUNIC Cluster Athens hosted a large-scale event with cultural happenings from several European countries on Saturday, 22nd September at Athens Conservatoire (17-19 Rigillis & Vasileos Georgiou B). At the stands information about the countries as well as about various language diplomas could be obtained. Austria was represented at the event by the Austrian Embassy and the Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Griechenland (ÖSD). As an Austrian contribution, the Moraitis School presented an abridged version of the Austrian children's book classic “Little I-Am-Me" ("Das kleine Ich bin Ich"). The event was supported by the City of Athens, the Austrian Embassy in Athens and a number of other Embassies and cultural institutes.

Athens, EU-Heads of Mission Lunch with H.E. the Greek Minister for Migration Policy Dimitris VITSAS, 26th September

On 26th September Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm invited to an EU Heads of Mission Lunch with Minister for Migration Policy Dimitris VITSAS as guest of honor. Under the motto "A Europe that protects: Security and the Fight against Illegal Migration", one of the main topics of the Austrian EU Council Presidency, the participants showed a keen interest in the remarks of © Austrian Embassy Athens Minister VITSAS on the current migration situation in

Greece and the efforts of his Ministry. At the end,

Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm thanked Minister VITSAS for meeting the Ambassadors from EU Member States, Switzerland and Norway in a very friendly atmosphere as well as for his highly interesting remarks, emphasizing the importance of common solutions for the protection of the external borders also starting outside the EU.

Athens, EUNIC event „Literary Walk“, 29th September

On the occasion of the European Day of Languages the EUNIC Cluster Athens organized a reading series with literary contributions by authors from several European countries on Saturday, 29th September at the National Library of the

© Austrian Embassy Athens Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (address: 364 Leof. Andrea Siggrou, 176 74, Kallithea). This year Austria was represented by the schreibART AUSTRIA author Susanne Gregor, who had moved from Slovakia to Austria as a child writes about the concept of foreigness. Her reading from her novel "Territorien" was well received by the audience. This event took place with the support of the City of Athens "Athens 2018 World Book Capital", the Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Griechenland (ÖSD) as well as the Austrian Embassy in Athens.

Athens, Courtesy visit to H.E. Deputy Minister of Interior Marina Chrysoveloni, 8th October

On 8th October Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Deputy Minister of Interior Mrs. Marina Chrysoveloni. The main topics during the exchange of views, which took place in a very friendly atmosphere, were the priorities of the Austrian EU Council Presidency as well as the experiences and plans of both countries regarding gender equality.

Athens, Courtesy visit to H.E. the new Minister of Shipping and Insular Policy Fotis Kouvelis, 9th October

On 9th October Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm paid a courtesy visit to the recently appointed Minister of Shipping and Insular Policy Fotis Kouvelis. The main topics of this very friendly encounter were the priorities of the Austrian EU Council Presidency as well as the current political situation from the perspective of the Ministry of National Defence. Moreover, possibilities for further deepening the cooperation with the Embassy were discussed.

Athens, Breakfast of the EU-HoMs with ND-President Kyriakos Mitsotakis, 10th October

On 10th October Ambassador Andrea Ikic- Böhm invited the EU-HoMs to a breakfast in the residence with the New Democracy President Kyriakos Mitsotakis as guest of honor.

President Mitsotakis, accompanied by the Shadow Foreign Minister Georgios Koumoutsakos (pictured on © Austrian Embassy Athens the right below), referred to the Austrian EU Council Presidency, discussed the current situation in Greece and outlined his priorities. He dealt extensively with the issues of Migration and Economy and addressed further current topics. The subsequent numerous questions posed by the Ambassadors from EU countries, Switzerland and Norway showed the great interest in the direct exchange, which took place in an agreeable and informal atmosphere.

Athens, Speech at the European Security & Defence College, 15th October

© Austrian Embassy Athens, from the left: Georgios Antonakakis (Co-Founder and President of the Institute of © CSDP Research & Training on European Affairs), Despoina Papadaki ( General Secretary of the Institute of Research & Training on European Affairs, Course Director CSDP Orientation Course), Leo Lindqvist ( Training Manager, European Security and Defence College)

On 15th October at the invitation of the "Institute for Research and Training on European Affairs" in cooperation with the "European Security & Defence College" Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm gave a detailed presentation on "The EU Global Strategy: A Europe that protects" during an orientation course on the Common Security and Defence Policy and also addressed topics of the Austrian EU Council Presidency.

Athens, Visit of the Austrian Federal Minister of Defence Kunasek, 18th -20th October

At the invitation of H.E. Minister of National Defence Panos Kammenos, H. E. Federal Minister of Defence Mario Kunasek visited Greece from 18th until 20th October 2018. The visit focused on detailed discussions between

Austrian Armed Forces Photograph/Pusch the two counterparts on current issues of common interest. The Austrian Federal Minister Mario Kunasek also presented the priorities of the Austrian EU Council Presidency from the perspective of his Ministry. At the end of this meeting, which took place in an excellent atmosphere, the possibilities for further deepening the cooperation between the two Ministries were discussed.

Athens, Visit to H.E. Minister of Administrative Reform H.E. Mrs. Mariliza Xenogiannakopoulou, 22nd October

On 22nd October Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm paid a courtesy visit to the recently appointed Minister of Administrative Reconstruction H.E. Mariliza Xenogiannakopoulou. The discussion centered on the Greek priorities for administrative reform as well as on the priority of the Austrian EU Council Presidency on “Securing Prosperity and Competitiveness through Digitalisation”. From her time in the European Parliament, H.E. Minister Xenogiannakopoulou remembered the © Austrian Embassy Athens preparations for the accession of Austria to the European

Union, which took place on 1.1.1995. At the end of the interesting exchange of views, both sides decided to continue the cooperation as soon as possible.

Athens, Meeting on consular cooperation, 23rd October

On 23rd October at the initiative of the Austrian Embassy in Athens under the motto of the Austrian EU Council Presidency "A Europe that protects", the third meeting on consular cooperation took place, this time with the Greek Tourist Police. At the invitation of the Austrian Consul Mag. Christoph Reitinger, numerous representatives of the Embassies of the EU member states, Switzerland and Norway as well as Southeastern European countries participated and showed great interest in the exchange of views with the Greek authorities. Special recognition was also given on this occasion to Mrs. Alexandra Mantzila, Head of the Crisis Center at the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who received spontaneous applause for her excellent cooperation with the Embassies in Athens.

Athens, Visit by H.E. Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs Dr. Karin Kneissl, 29th October

On 29th October H.E. Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs Dr. Karin Kneissl participated in the EU-Arab Summit, which took place from 29th until 30th October in Athens. The event, which was held for the ©Austrian Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs (BMEIA), Mahmoud third time and The event, which was held for the third time and aimed at strengthening relations between the EU and the Arab world, was initiated by the Greek government. At the opening of the conference Federal Minister Kneissl in her capacity as EU Council Presidency gave a keynote speech on the historical roots of the conflicts in the Middle East and surprised the high- ranking audience with her fluent

©Austrian Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign knowledge of Arabic. During her visit, Affairs (BMEIA), Mahmoud a bilateral discussion with the Greek

Prime Minister and Foreign Minister H.E. Alexis Tsipras as well as with other high-level conference participants took place in an excellent atmosphere (pictured right here withwith H.E. Palestinian Vice-PM and Minister of Information H.E. Dr. Nabil Abu Rudeineh and in the picture on the left with H.E. Serbian Vice-President and Minister of Interior H.E. Nebojša Stefanović) took place in an excellent atmosphere.

©Austrian Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign ©Austrian Federal Ministry for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs (BMEIA), Mahmoud Affairs (BMEIA), Mahmoud

Athens, Visit by Vice-Chancellor retd. Dr. med. Erhard Busek and students from Graz, 31st October

Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm was pleased to welcome Vice-Chancellor retd. Dr. Erhard Busek as well as professors and students of the University of Graz. The students had deliberately chosen Greece for their study trip and showed great interest in the presentations and subsequent discussion on "Greece and its external relations, with special focus on Southeast Europe" with H.E. Ambassador Darko Angelov, who described Skopje's point of view, H.E. Ambassador Ana Vukadinović, who focused on Podgorica’s view, Vasilis Tselios (Expert Minister Counselor in the Greek Foreign Ministry), Vassilis Nedos, Diplomatic Correspondent for "Kathimerini" and Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm as hostess. The Austrian Ambassador also addressed the Austrian EU-Presidency Priority "Stability in the neighborhood - bringing Western Balkans / Southeast Europe closer to the EU" and explained Greece's important geopolitical role. After answering the numerous questions of interested guests from Austria, the event was concluded with a reception in the Austrian Residence.

Athens, EUNIC Event „Culture of Integration”, 9th November

The European Union Network of Institutes of Culture (EUNIC) invited to a conference under the title “Culture of Integration” at the American College of Athens on Friday, 9th November, 2018,. The project "Culture of Integration" tried to offer answers in the aftermath of the refugee crisis. The EUNIC Cluster Athens © Austrian Embassy Athens financially supported five targeted actions in the priority areas of "Libraries, Education and the Arts", which were meant to contribute to the cultural and social integration of the refugees, while helping the local people receiving them to deal with the challenges involved. The numerous guests listened to the remarks of the project coordinators with great interest and had the opportunity to delve into the subject areas more deeply during a personal discussion after the event.

The project “Culture of Integration” and the closing ceremony were co-organized by the following institutions: Goethe-Institut Athen, the Austrian Embassy, the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Hellenic Foundation for Culture, the British Council, the Cyprus House and the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Athens in collaboration with the American College of Greece and with the support of the National Library of Greece.

Athens, Courtesy visit to the Alternate Minister of National Defence Panagiotis Rigas, 13th November On 13th November, Ambassador Andrea Ikic- Böhm, accompanied by Military Attaché Colonel Nikolaus Rottenberger, paid a courtesy visit to the Alternate Minister of National Defence Panagiotis RIGAS. Both sides emphasized the good bilateral relations, as demonstrated on the occasion of the visit of the Austrian Minister of National © Austrian Embassy Athens, from the left: Adjutant of the Alternate Minister, Defence Mario KUNASEK to George Balafas (Head of Political Section of Alternate Minister's Office), Colonel Nikolaus Rottenberger, Austrian Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm, Athens in October. During Alternate Minister of National Defence Panagiotis Rigas, Captain Spyridon the courtesy visit, topics of Pollatos (Director of the Alternate Minister's Military Office) bilateral cooperation as well as the Austrian EU Council Presidency were discussed in a friendly atmosphere.

Athens, Conference titled „Women in European Politics“, 17th & 18th November

On 17th and 18th November the conference titled “Women in European Politics” took place. It was organized by the Representation of the European Commission in Greece and the City of Athens on the occasion of the anniversary of the signing of the Athens Declaration "Women in Power" on 2nd November, 1992 and gave an overview of the developments and the involvement of women in © Austrian Embassy Athens European decision-making. Deputy Head of Mission and Austrian Embassy Minister-Counselor Dr. Martina Hermann represented the Austrian Embassy at the conference.

Athens, EU HoMs with H.E. Minister of Administrative Reconstruction Marilisa XENOGIANNAKOPOULOU, 22nd November

© Austrian Embassy Athens On 22nd November Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm hosted an EU Heads of Missions breakfast in the Residence with H.E. Minister for Administrative Reorganization Marilisa XENOGIANNAKOPOULOU as guest of honor. With "Securing Prosperity and Competitiveness through Digitalization", this event was

© Austrian Embassy Athens dedicated to one of the priority topics of the Austrian EU Council Presidency. H.E. Minister Marilisa XENOGIANNAKOPOULOU outlined the Greek Government's efforts to reform the public administration sector, aiming at overall economic growth for the country. Thereby, digitalization is a horizontal priority. Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm thanked H.E. Minister Marilisa XENOGIANNAKOPOULOU for her interesting remarks, especially with regard to the importance of the sector of public administration for investors.

Athens, EU HoMs with H.E. the Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs Giorgos KATROUGALOS, 30th November

On 30th November Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm, locally representing the Presidency of the Council of European Union, invited the Ambassadors of the EU Member States and EFTA countries accredited in Athens to a EU-Heads of Mission breakfast at the residence with H.E. the Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs Giorgos KATROUGALOS as guest of honor. H.E. Giorgos KATROUGALOS addressed current European and regional topics and answered numerous questions of the interested audience. © Austrian Embassy Athens Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm thanked H.E. Giorgos KATROUGALOS for the comprehensive discussion, which took place in a traditionally friendly atmosphere.

Athens, Courtesy visit to Deputy Minister of Digital Policy & Media Lefteris Kretsos, 3rd December

On 3rd December, 2018 Ambassador Andrea Ikic- Böhm paid a courtesy visit to Deputy Minister for Digital Policy, Telecommunications and Media Lefteris KRETSOS. Deputy Minister KRETSOS emphasized, among other things, that Greece should become a film-friendly country, creating jobs and promoting tourism. Deputy Minister KRETSOS showed interest in successful Austrian investors in Greece - especially in the digital sector, such as the firm HCN in Thessaloniki, and expressed his appreciation to ORF. Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm was also pleased with ©Austrian Embassy Athens the interest of Vice Minister KRETSOS in the further cultural plans of the Embassy as well as in film projects related to Austria.

Athens, Christmas event and the 200th anniversary of “Silent Night! Holy Night!”, 13th December

TEXT MH

© Athens College, from left: Richard L. Jackson (President of the Hellenic-American Educational Foundation), Martina Hermann (Embassy Counselor of the Austrian Embassy Athens), Dimitris Karamanos (Counselor of the Chairman © Athens College of the Board of Administration)

On 13th December, 2018 Athens College in collaboration with the Embassy, the Association of Former Greek Students in Austria, S.E.F.A. as well as Moraitis School hosted a Christmas concert on "200 years Silent Night! Holy Night!". In addition to readings by students and works of Austrian composers, there were two school choirs (consisting of students of Athens College and Moraitis School, where the headquarters of the ÖSD in Greece are) that sang Christmas carols in Greek, German and English. At the end of the event both choirs sang together on stage "Silent Night! Holy night!" in German and Greek and finally in English together with the audience. In addition, an exhibition organized by the Austrian Embassy on the history of "Silent Night! Holy Night!" was shown in English. The concert took place in connection with the end of the Austrian Presidency of the Council of the European Union under the motto "An Austrian Christmas carol goes from Austria to Europe and around the world" and has helped to bring Europe close to the people.

Athens, EU-HoMs-Fireside Talk with Dr. Martin Czurda, 18th December

On 18 December Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm invited the EU Heads of Mission and those of the EFTA and South East European countries accredited in Athens to a "fireside talk" with the Austrian CEO of the Hellenic Financial Stability Fund/HFSF Dr. Martin CZURDA at the residence. After a highly interesting exchange of views on current

continued with a Christmas "Glühwein" reception.

Athens, EU-HoMs-breakfast meeting with Archbishop Hieronymos, 20th December

On 20th December Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm invited the EU Heads of Mission and those of the accredited EFTA and Southeastern European states to an EU Heads of Mission breakfast meeting with His Beatitude the Archbishop of Athens and All Greece and © Austrian Embassy Athens Primate of the autocephalous Orthodox Church of Greece, HIERONYMOS II, as guest of honor in the residence. His Beatitude Archbishop HIERONYMOS II addressed the issue of the relations between church and state and answered the numerous general current questions of the participants. Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm thanked His Beatitude Archbishop © Austrian Embassy Athens: His Beatitude Archbishop Hieronymos II with the interpreter (in the middle of the photo) HIERONYMOS II very cordially for the and Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm detailed discussion and the time taken for it. His Beatitude Archbishop HIERONYMOS II, Ambassador Andrea Ikic-Böhm and the guests present exchanged their best wishes for a blessed Christmas.

Athens, symbolic handover of the local EU Council Presidency to the Romanian Embassy

The Austrian Embassy wishes the Romanian Embassy as the new local EU Council Presidency all the best and every success!!