On 14 March 2025, in Kyiv, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna met with the newly appointed Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Beate Meinl-Reisinger.

The meeting also brought together Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Austria to Ukraine Arad Benkö and Director General for Political Affairs of the Ministry of European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria Hannah Liko.

The parties discussed key aspects of Ukraine's European integration, the security situation and further cooperation between the two countries.

Olha Stefanishyna stressed the importance of European unity in countering russian aggression and supporting Ukraine.

"Unity is our common strength. Loss of unity will give the enemy a chance to weaken Europe, undermine its security and strategic autonomy. We appreciate Austria's support in upholding common European principles and sanctions policy," the official said.

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the importance of the EU's support in the sanctions policy: "Any easing of sanctions against russia could set dangerous precedents and complicate Ukraine's legal position in international courts."

The parties also discussed Ukraine's progress towards EU membership. Olha Stefanishyna commended the high level of cooperation between Ukraine, and the Western Balkans and Moldova in the framework of the EU enlargement process. The Deputy Prime Minister informed her Austrian counterpart about the ongoing exchange of experience and practical cooperation, and stressed that all these countries support Ukraine as they are going through similar processes.

The parties also addressed regional cooperation and Austria's participation in programmes to support Ukrainian regions. Olha Stefanishyna invited the Austrian delegation to participate in the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, which has become an important platform for coordinating efforts at all levels of Government in Ukraine.

At the end of the meeting, the Austrian side assured of its full support for Ukraine, particularly in the context of achieving sustainable peace in the country.