The African Union and the Republic of Austria have formally entered a new phase of diplomatic relations following a high-level meeting at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and the Austrian Minister for European and International Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at deepening cooperation on multilateral reform, regional security, and economic development.

A central point of the discussions was the potential opening of an AU resident representation in Vienna, which would position the Union at a major global hub for international organisations.

During the briefing, the Chairperson stressed the importance of solidarity between medium-sized nations and regional bodies to protect the international order. Highlighting the shared perspective between the two parties, he said:

"Today, as medium and small countries, medium organisations, we need to stick together. We need to find the ways and means to save this multilateral system upon which we have built peace, stability, prosperity across the decades after the Second World War."

The Austrian Minister described the agreement as a practical step towards a more effective international system, noting that such alliances are essential for smaller states during periods of global instability.

She remarked: "In uncertain times like this, this matters because strong partnerships and strong multilateral institutions are more important than ever. For small countries like Austria, they are a lifeline, but I think that the African Union is a true partner here when it comes to preserving this system."

The partnership is expected to move immediately into an implementation phase, governed by a joint action plan and regular political consultations.

By strengthening ties with Vienna, home to major bodies such as the UN and the IAEA, the African Union aims to ensure the partnership produces tangible results for regional growth and more balanced international relations.