For information only - not an official document
UNIS/INF/536
30 March 2018
First, let me thank Austrian Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs, Ms. Karin Kneissl, for the hospitality extended by her Ministry in hosting this meeting. It was very much appreciated by the United Nations and by both Ministers.
As you know, this has been one of a series of meetings to help resolve the so-called "name issue". I can say that we met all day and it was a productive meeting, which leads me to be optimistic about the future.
At the same time as we had our meeting, there was a parallel meeting of diplomats and experts from both countries working on some of the less controversial aspects of an agreement, particularly focused on the future relationship of the two countries, which also made progress.
The series of meetings will go on in the future. We have set out a path of work, and I can say, without getting into any details, difficult issues were addressed.
Although there are still difficult issues to resolve, in my opinion, having been at this for a long time, there was a very positive feeling in the room. Both ministers are focused on the long-term relationship, on stability in the region, on the importance of good relations between the two countries, and I believe the talks are moving in the right direction.
Thank you very much.
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