The Austrian government is paving the way to raise the retirement age
The program "Pressestunde" on ORF channel hosted on Sunday the Foreign Minister and leader of the NEOS party, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, who made a series of clear statements and messages regarding the economic and social challenges facing the new Austrian government.
The minister said that the economic situation is worse than expected, and despite this, the government is committed to an austerity plan aimed at saving 6.4 billion euros this year. She added: "Time is running out. I have repeatedly said that the 'whatever it takes' policy will backfire on us."
One of the key points emphasized by the minister is the necessity to raise the actual retirement age (Pensionsantrittsalter) to match the legal age. She clarified that early retirement and part-time programs cost the state a lot. She stated: "We must succeed in making people work longer and actually retire later." If this goal is not achieved, she spoke about a "sustainability" mechanism that could lead to additional measures.
The minister pointed out that some painful decisions cannot be avoided, saying: "Even I would have preferred to announce more daily aid, but the reality is as it is."
As for international affairs, she addressed relations with the United States, emphasizing that the European Union has demonstrated its economic strength during the trade disputes with Washington, and she confirmed that the Union can impose counter-tariffs affecting the United States if necessary. She added that "Europe's strength lies in its unity," calling for avoiding emotional reactions to Donald Trump's policies.
Despite what she described as a lack of reliability from the American side currently, Meinl-Reisinger emphasized the importance of partnership, but from the standpoint of strengthening European independence. She reiterated her rejection of Austria joining NATO, pointing to the need to enhance the EU's self-defense capabilities.