Austria and Algeria have underscored the need to intensify their joint efforts to combat illegal migration and expand economic cooperation, particularly in the field of green hydrogen.
In a statement issued by the Austrian Foreign Ministry on the occasion of Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf’s visit to Vienna, the foreign ministers of Austria and Algeria discussed global hotspots, from the Middle East conflict to Russia’s aggressive war on Ukraine, as well as the situation in the Sahel region and Libya, Algeria’s neighboring country.
The discussions primarily focused on global hotspots, especially the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, the worldwide impact of the war in Ukraine, and instability in the Sahel region.
The statement highlighted that the ministers also addressed the situation in Libya and the resulting migration pressures on Austria, noting that Algeria is a key partner in migration issues.
Algeria’s efforts in managing migration have helped reduce illegal migration via the Central Mediterranean route by 60%, according to the statement.
The Austrian Foreign Minister praised Algeria’s border protection efforts and successes in combating illegal migration.
The statement further noted that bilateral cooperation on migration issues was strengthened during the meeting, with the signing of a joint declaration of intent on readmission and the fight against cross-border organized crime and terrorism.
