In a significant milestone for international diplomacy, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen exchanged congratulatory messages this Thursday, May 28, 2026, celebrating the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
President Xi highlighted the resilience and steady development of the bilateral relationship over more than five decades. He specifically recalled the establishment of the China-Austria friendly strategic partnership in 2018, which he noted opened a new chapter in their shared history.
Beyond political agreements, the bond between the two peoples has been strengthened through cultural exchange. President Xi pointed to the debut of a new pair of "panda ambassadors" in Vienna in May 2025 as a symbol of the deepening friendship.
Addressing the current global climate, President Xi emphasized that in a "fluid and turbulent world," both China and Austria serve as promoters of world peace and defenders of multilateralism and free trade. He expressed his readiness to work with President Van der Bellen to elevate bilateral ties to a new level, fostering mutual respect, openness, and win-win cooperation.
President Van der Bellen echoed these sentiments, describing the 2018 elevation of ties as a significant milestone. He noted that the past 55 years have seen deepening cooperation across various sectors, including education, scientific research, culture, and the economy, all of which have consolidated the foundation of their friendship.
Given the volatility of the current international landscape, President Van der Bellen stressed the importance of maintaining extensive exchanges to safeguard stability and enhance mutual understanding. He expressed a strong hope that both sides will continue to push for further progress and elevate the relationship to a higher level.
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Chinese, Austrian leaders exchange congratulations on 55 years of ties
cgtn.com
