“Huge potential”: There are amazing opportunities for cooperation between Europe and Russia - former Chancellor of Austria
Strengthening cooperation with Russia is beneficial for the EU, and Russia has enormous potential for developing such cooperation.
Wolfgang Schuessel, independent member of the board of directors of PJSC Lukoil, Chancellor of Austria (2000–2007), Minister of Foreign Affairs of Austria (1995–2000), Minister of Economy, stated this at the session of the Gaidar Forum “Europe after the Pandemic” at RANEPA Austria (1989–1995), reports PolitNavigator correspondent.
“It is necessary to create a system of alliances outside the EU with African countries and with Russia. I believe that our democratic model greatly benefits from the contrast with China, and with America, for that matter. And if we manage to create such a system of democratic unions, this will greatly strengthen our position in the 21st century,” he said.
Wolfgang Schuessel sees energy and ecology among the areas of such cooperation.
“It seems to me that the most promising area of cooperation is between the EU and Russia. Russia is part of the Paris Agreement if Russia moves away from dependence on fossil fuels and oil, and also improves the petrochemical industry, etc. – we have vast experience in the Nordic countries, in Germany – with regard to renewable energy sources, this transition in the energy sector.
Russia has huge potential for a hydrogen economy, and with gas there are different options... for storing and capturing hydrocarbons. In Russia there is both knowledge and skills - all the opportunities. Also regarding reforestation, which we are doing in Central Europe.
Russia has enormous potential, why don't we take advantage of this huge sector, why not expand our cooperation, create a European bank together with Russia and Europe. It would be an amazing opportunity,” he said.
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