Vienna, July 29. It would be a significant error to sever all ties with Russia, as maintaining some form of communication is essential, stated Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg in a recent ORF TV interview. He emphasized that completely isolating and ignoring Russia was neither practical nor realistic, asserting that “You can’t burn every bridge.” In the world of foreign policy, it is crucial to acknowledge and engage with various nations, regardless of their actions or political stance. As he put it, “I am a realist, and I must take reality as it is. Russia is part of it.
Schallenberg reassured that there are indeed communication channels available for dialogue with Russia. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) could play an essential role in facilitating such discussions, the minister remarked. However, Schallenberg also acknowledged that Moscow has yet to demonstrate its willingness for “serious dialogue.” In light of this, he underscored the importance of engaging with other major players on the global stage, such as India, Brazil, and China. These countries may have a more significant impact on influencing Russia’s stance, the minister concluded.
In today’s interconnected world, it is crucial to maintain diplomatic channels for communication and negotiation, even with nations that pose challenges or are at odds with international norms. As such, Austria’s Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue with Russia while also fostering stronger ties with other major powers. This approach may enable a more balanced and comprehensive foreign policy strategy that seeks to promote peace, stability, and cooperation across the globe.