2024-11-16 18:36:00
“More than three decades ago, the people of Lower Austria decided that St. Pölten would no longer be their capital, but rather Vienna. And yet you Viennese have always remained – geographically and emotionally – in the heart of Lower Austria,” said Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner this Saturday evening at the ceremonial handover and illumination of the Christmas tree on Vienna’s Rathausplatz, symbolizing the close ties between the two federal states the almost 30 meter high spruce tree from Rastenfeld, which adorns the Christmas market this year.
The governor emphasized that Vienna did not hesitate for a second during the flood disaster and helped Lower Austria in its greatest need, even though they themselves were affected. She also mentioned the joint efforts in the economy, in the health sector and in tourism. “But this togetherness is most clearly shown in this Christmas tree: with this tree, Lower Austria makes the federal capital shine. This tradition shows that together we can achieve the most beautiful things. There is a good neighborhood between Vienna and Lower Austria,” the state governor continued. She particularly thanked the Rastenfelder delegation and the Waldhausen music band.
Vienna’s mayor Michael Ludwig emphasized that Advent is a time of reflection and that this is particularly important in times of crises and challenges: “This tree is a sign and symbol of the good cooperation between Vienna and Lower Austria and the communities,” said he. Vienna also consistently achieves top positions in international rankings, “just recently the Christmas market on Rathausplatz was named one of the most beautiful markets in the world,” he said and thanked Rastenfeld’s mayor Wandl “very warmly for this very, very beautiful tree . It’s a beautiful symbol of collaboration.”
99 exhibitors and companies, many of them from Lower Austria, present themselves around the Christmas tree with delicacies and handicrafts. There was also a lot of interest at the NÖ advertising stand, where many people secured a Christmas present with the NÖ card. The Waldhausen Community Music Band and the Vienna Guard Music provided the music for the celebration.
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What specific collaborative initiatives are in place between Lower Austria and Vienna beyond the Christmas tree ceremony?
**Interview with Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner on the Christmas Tree Ceremony and Lower Austria’s Connection to Vienna**
**Interviewer:** Good evening, Governor Mikl-Leitner. Thank you for joining us. You recently spoke at the ceremonial handover of the Christmas tree in Vienna. Can you share what the tree symbolizes for the relationship between Lower Austria and Vienna?
**Governor Mikl-Leitner:** Absolutely. The tree, which is nearly 30 meters tall and comes from Rastenfeld, represents more than just the holiday spirit; it stands for the enduring ties between Lower Austria and Vienna. While the people of Lower Austria chose to have Vienna as their capital over three decades ago, we have always maintained a strong connection—both geographically and emotionally. This tree lights up Rathausplatz and reminds us of our shared heritage and unity.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that Vienna provided support during the recent flood disaster in Lower Austria. Can you expand on that?
**Governor Mikl-Leitner:** Certainly. When Lower Austria faced severe flooding, the response from Vienna was immediate and heartfelt. The solidarity demonstrated during such challenging times is a testament to our close bond. It’s not just about geographical proximity; it’s about standing together in the face of adversity.
**Interviewer:** How do you see the relationship between the two federal states evolving in the future?
**Governor Mikl-Leitner:** I believe that our relationship will only strengthen as we continue to collaborate on various fronts, from cultural exchanges to disaster management. The Christmas tree lighting is just one example of how we celebrate our ties. As we face new challenges and opportunities, continuing to support each other is essential for the benefit of all residents in both regions.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Governor Mikl-Leitner, for sharing your insights. We look forward to seeing how this relationship flourishes in the coming years.
**Governor Mikl-Leitner:** Thank you for having me. Happy holidays to everyone!
