Austria marks National Day with reception in Sarajevo, reaffirms support for BiH's EU path

This year's guest of honor is Daniel Fellner, Governor of the Austrian state of Carinthia.

"National Day is a good opportunity to pay tribute to the close friendship and excellent bilateral relations between Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Austria is one of the largest investors in the country, and Austrian companies provide thousands of jobs. Our two countries also cooperate closely in the fields of the military, police, judiciary, education, and culture. The visit of the Governor of Carinthia confirms our shared commitment to further deepening and expanding this cooperation," Ambassador Diwald said.

Austria is a close partner of Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of the countries providing the strongest support for its path toward the European Union. It is important for Bosnia and Herzegovina to make rapid progress, which would ultimately contribute to even closer ties between the two countries, the Austrian Embassy in Sarajevo said in a statement.

The statement adds that crises and wars leave no European country untouched. Everyone is facing inflation, rising living costs, economic losses, unemployment, and the burden of debt. Despite these challenges, Austria remains one of the safest countries in the world, with one of the highest standards of living. Austria, and Carinthia in particular, symbolizes social security, outstanding infrastructure, and preserved natural environments.

"Our country also stands for people who cherish a sense of community, stand up for others, and see solidarity as something that makes us richer rather than poorer. Our country also symbolizes a sense of community that transcends borders, as we maintain good neighborly relations. Let us harness the strength of togetherness! Let us work together for an open society, the preservation of our democracies, and the creation of future prospects that inspire courage, strength, and confidence," Carinthia Governor Daniel Fellner said.