World Champion Austria Tuning in
“World Champion Austria” hears what the economy says The leaders of the Senate of Economy Austria are discussing the business location Austria. By SYLVIA FOISSY and ANDREAS BRUNNER
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he Senate of Economy Austria is a non-partisan business organisation and has been a driving force in shaping an eco-social and sustainable economy and society since its establishment in 2006. CEO Hans Harrer discussed Austria as a business location with President Erhard Busek and Vice President Benita Ferrero-Waldner.
Harrer: I am glad you took the time to exchange views on the business location Austria. In my opinion, Austria is an excellent location even just for the cultural quality of its society. The social security signifies Austria and we can proudly say that Austria is a safe haven for businesses and staff of different cultures. Austria has therefore the perfect foundations for further developing a prosperous business location. Busek: It is a remarkable achievement of the Austrian economy to have invested strongly into Central, Eastern and South-East Europe. Our country’s presence is felt stronger through the economy than through politics. Harrer: There is still need to catch-up in several areas in order to become a world-class business location. We need more courage and in particular more freedom for innovations. We will only be able to master our future if we meet the challenges of politics, society and economy with innovations.
Photo: Senat der Wirtschaft
Busek: Catching-up needs to be done mainly when it comes to trying to be part of infrastructure projects financed with EU monies. Apart from that, the sky is the limit when trying to show more commitment. Particularly with regards to the current Covid pandemic it is necessary to do more in this area.
Hans Harrer, CEO of the Senate of Economy Austria
Harrer: We also need more self-esteem within the EU in order to highlight our achievements. Which events do you consider significant when you think of Austria’s membership in the European Union? Busek: Joining the European Union and the fall of the Iron Curtain as well as the events in South-East Europe were significant, I would say. I had the opportunity to influence and help shape these things,