SPÖ-Laimer: Austria's neutrality can and must make a contribution to peace

2024-02-28 10:37:05

Social democracy stands up tirelessly for neutrality

Vienna (OTS/SK) – SPÖ defense spokesman Robert Laimer emphasized the SPÖ’s unwavering commitment to neutrality at today’s National Council meeting on the referendum “Neutrality YES”. “For social democracy, neutrality is more than just a term in our political ABC. It is a foundation of our Second Republic and therefore a strategic foreign and security policy guideline. The Social Democrats will therefore tirelessly stand up for neutrality.” ****

Laimer emphasizes that neutrality also has a protective character. “It is often said that neutrality offers no protection. I would like to oppose this decisively! Neutrality is certainly not always a sufficient condition for peace, but historically it has helped to avoid senseless sacrifices. Neutrality can help avoid being drawn into conflicts,” says Laimer. The MP also points out that many international organizations have settled in Vienna.

Finally, Laimer emphasizes that neutrality is deeply rooted in the population: “78 percent of those surveyed in a recent survey are in favor of maintaining neutrality. This shows that trust in our neutrality is very high. This trust must be understood as a European policy mandate. Austria’s neutrality can and must make an essential contribution to peace in Europe within the EU. The Austrian population can rely 100 percent on us when it comes to questions of neutrality.” (Conclusion) sd/ls