When values were trampled on, Austria was never neutral
An interview with Alexander Schallenberg, former Austrian minister of foreign affairs and acting Chancellor. Interviewer: Aureliusz M. Pędziwol
September 26, 2025 -
Alexander Schallenberg
Aureliusz M. Pędziwol
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InterviewsIssue 5 2025Magazine
Photo: Aureliusz M. Pędziwol
AURELIUSZ M. PĘDZIWOL: Chancellor, you seem to be a politician of a special kind. You preferred to remain foreign minister rather than become head of government. How so? Is it in your genes?
ALEXANDER SCHALLENBERG: No, that’s not it. I’ve simply learned that it’s a fallacy to think one can neatly plan out one’s life. I didn’t plan my political career. After spending almost six years in government, in many different roles and during a very intense period, I decided the time was ripe to move on. But even though I may be leaving the playing field – please allow me this metaphor – I am not taking off my Team-Austria jersey. Once a politician, always a politician, regardless of the position one might hold.
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