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Spindelegger stresses the importance of 20th century history with neighbours |
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Spindelegger: "We should deal with the 20th century history of our neighbours”
Foreign ministers agree on the appointment of a new Austrian-Czech Commission of HistoriansMikulov, 9 September 2009 - "Austria and the Czech Republic are linked by a developed and mutually responsible spirit of neighbourliness. This year we had many opportunities to display our excellent relations and make people aware of all that we have in common in the new Europe," claimed Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger following a meeting with his Czech counterpart, Jan Kohout, at Mikulov in the Czech Republic. The Foreign Minister referred to the joint Lower Austrian Provincial Exhibition, entitled Austria-Czech Republic, which is a cross-border project taking place in the towns of Horn, Raabs and Telc, as well as to events organised to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Iron Curtain. The two foreign ministers signed a memorandum on the appointment of a new Austrian-Czech Commission of Historians, which will be made up of eight academics from both countries. "In a joint and open manner, and by removing the blinkers, this Commission is a visible expression of our readiness to come to terms with the eventful history of the 20th century as it has affected us as neighbours. This includes the key years of 1968 and 1989 as well as the difficult chapter of the immediate post-war period," stated the Foreign Minister. "For a future-oriented partnership it is necessary to go beyond the commemoration rituals and also illuminate those events on whose interpretation we do not necessarily agree.
We must - and indeed want - to understand our common history as an enrichment and source of strength. I am convinced that the Commission of Historians will further enhance our partnership and neighbourliness," affirmed Spindelegger. At their meeting the two foreign ministers also discussed the possibilities of intensifying consular co-operation. In view of the difficult budget situation in all states it is now imperative to identify and take advantage of synergetic effects in the diplomatic and consular networks of the two countries. A framework agreement on mutual representation as regards the issue of visas is currently being negotiated. "Our long-term goal is cost reduction in our mutual interest, while at the same time maintaining services for our citizens," concluded Spindelegger.
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