A.Mazza: Mr. Minister of Foreign Affairs, the world seems to be out of control. How can Europe efficiently respond to these crises situations?
S. Kurz: 2016 was characterized by great challenges: the refugee crisis, the huge migratory influx, world terror…
In my opinion the challenges will not diminish. We need a strong Europe that can successfully respond to important questions with speed, flexibility and determination.
A.Mazza: Great Britain has decided on Brexit – that is, to leave the EU. How great is the danger of the collapse of Europe?
S. Kurz: Great Britain often stigmatized the shortcomings within the EU, for example in the sector of social services and the reinforcement of the principle of subsidiarity.
From my point of view, we need quick solutions to current problems, in particular those concerning the refugee crisis. In doing so, we can regain our citizens’ trust in the EU. In the big issues such as foreign policy, safety and defense, the EU must become stronger. In other areas, on the other hand, the EU must confer greater authority to the national states and regions, where certain issues can be resolved with greater efficiency. If we succeed in all this, there will not be any danger of the collapse of Europe.
A.Mazza: How must the Europe of the future be? What is your vision of Europe?
S.Kurz: The European Union represented a greatly successful project of peace and a useful platform for the development of Austria – in particular for the younger generation that experienced Europe without borders. I am convinced that, to Europe, there is no other alternative for Austria. This demands, however, the continued development of the European project and also requires that we speak openly about everything that needs to be changed. In that regard, I need to highlight the need to protect our external borders so that we may continue to live in a Europe without internal borders.
Of great importance is also the concept of subsidiarity, or, in other words, a Europe that is strong on issues of security and foreign policy but yet leaves space for regional entities in regards to the minor needs to which it would not be able to respond promptly and effectively.
Another very fundamental point is the resolution of the migratory crisis, that requires us to find clear and definite solutions. Only then will we be able to reclaim the trust of the citizens and work on the project of a European family.
A.Mazza: Do you know the Seventh-Day Adventist Church? What can the Adventist Church do in Austria and Europe to support the efforts made towards resolving the various crises?
S.Kurz: I certainly know the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Austria, which also represents a state-recognized organization. All the churches and religious denominations are called to collaborate with us to tackle the various challenges according to their individual capabilities – in particular that which concerns the current refugee crisis.
A.Mazza: Thank you for this conversation, Mr. Minister. I wish you the richest of divine blessings.
S.Kurz: Thank you, too, Mr. Mazza.
Picture: Andreas Mazza, EUD NEWS Editor.
