AUSTRIA AS A BRIDGE BUILDER BETWEEN EAST AND WEST

Relations between Russia and the West remain at an all-time low, oscillating between stagnation and new waves of confrontation. Existing mechanisms of cooperation have proved ineffective, and current efforts to revive cooperation – especially at the highest diplomatic levels – are widely lacking. Mediated by a sense of mistrust and suspicion, both sides have become increasingly disillusioned with each other. Breaking the deadlock is aggravated by the fact that they remain fundamentally conflicted over key issues, including the root causes of the crisis and methods of dealing with the contentious issues of the moment.

Understanding and respecting the interests of the other side is imperative for cooperative relations between Russia and the West. The lack thereof has been one major factor that has contributed to the deterioration of Russia-West relations.

Regardless of fundamental disagreements between both sides, efforts to improve relations must take place. Engaging in dialogue does not come at the cost of one’s vital interests. Today, however, it seems that this spirit of cooperation has become increasingly marginalised.

Russia and Western allies remain divided over the reasons for the current crisis. Conflicting narratives tend to inflame the political debate, making it difficult to engage in pragmatic cooperation. Mistakes have been made by both sides; evidently, an insistence on blaming the other side for everything that has gone wrong is anything but helpful to rebuilding trust.

While the EU’s stance towards Russia has become increasingly resolute, Vienna has maintained friendly relations with Moscow. It is important to remember though that this approach is not the result of recent changes in Austrian politics. Rather, it is closely connected to Austria’s longstanding relations with Russia, its constitutional neutrality, and its traditional role as a bridge-builder between the East and West. Engaging in dialogue with Russia, especially in difficult times, has been a consistent feature of Austrian foreign policy.

The key word which explains why Austria has managed to maintain good relations with Russia, even in times when it profoundly disagrees with its decisions and actions, is ‘respect’. Austria has generally treated Russia with respect, and without excessive judgement and prejudice; in spite of circumstances, it has made efforts to try to understand.

Engaging in dialogue with Russia is not merely a matter of choice, but one of necessity. Russia is part of Europe and ought to be treated as such. It is precisely the existing divisions that necessitate engagement in dialogue. What underlines the need for political rapprochement is the fact that the EU and Russia are in a state of inextricable interdependency; a primary example of this is the energy sector.

There is no difference so vast that it cannot be bridged. Yet, achieving any change will require respecting and recognising each other’s interests as a primary step in this arduous task. Building trust and confidence is key to restoring good relations between the European Union and Russia.