August 2000 - Nr. 8
Austrian Affairs
The ambassador feels he understands Haider’s temporary claim to fame and why he enjoys in a small part of Austria some popularity, a popularity, which is already waning. Austria is undergoing many changes within the new structuring of a united Europe. This brings hardships, especially to those that have no understanding of the requirements of this union. Suddenly there are rules and regulations that were not there before. A simple individual, who has done business for most of his or her life a certain way, finds it hard to adjust to the new rules and additional regulations handed down from Brussels. Of course this creates some protest among those that have a hard time changing and thinking along with this new form of life. This would typically be the time to bring out the malcontents in any nation. The fiscal requirements alone are of a nature which even high finance has to get a grip on. But it looks good for Austria. The statistics are continuing to rise, regardless of political discord. Trade is flourishing, also between Canada and Austria.
Echo
Germanica appreciated this frank discussion in a relaxed setting, which
allowed for a fair exploration of the facts and sentiments among nations.
Mr. Ettmayer proved to be an intelligent diplomat and politician with much
insight into the workings of people and countries, who served his nation
previously in Finland successfully. In fact he found many similarities
between Finland and Canada. The commerce and industries seem to be
structured surrounding similar products. His views on Austrian and Canadian
relations are contained in the ambassador’s good wishes to Echo Germanica
on our 10th anniversary. (See: Austrian
Greetings)
A
few weeks later, on July 10,20000, it was time to say good bye to Franz X.
Dilly, Deputy Trade commissioner at the Consulate General of Austria in
Toronto. By now he has started his new post in Munich, while his
replacement, Michaela Bittner has taken over his posting here in Toronto.
The "good bye and hallo" reception was also held at the National
Club. Many individuals from the area of commerce and industry came to bid
farewell to Mr, Dilly and his charming wife Karin. Both regretted to have to
leave Canada, but see of course other advantages being so close to home in
Munich.
Michaela Bittner comes well prepared to do her job as the deputy trade commissioner. Her previous postings brought her to Johannesburg, South Africa (1993-96), Düsseldorf (1996-97), and from there, until her arrival here, Zurich, Switzerland. She speaks an impeccable English and is certain to be a great asset to the commercial section of the Austrian consulate in Canada.
Austrian relations also flourish when local expatriates travel home and give a series of concerts. Such was the way with our wonderful Austrian Alpine Singers under the direction of Willi Platzer. According to a report from Claus Pircher, who usually functions as master of ceremony at the choir’s concerts and also did so on this trip to Austria, the 36 members of the choir did not only have a wonderful time singing in many historic places, but were welcomed with open arms where ever they went. They helped celebrate some anniversaries, sang in historical places, but also learned a lot about the old "Heimatland". Especially the young generation had an opportunity to see the land of their fathers and forefathers from a most intimate side. Instead of just hearing about it, they could see, hear, smell and touch this culture, which they are representing so admirably well here in North America. One or more of the concerts have been recorded on video and can be obtained from Willi Platzer by calling (509) 925-6886, or via email: alpenchor@hurontario.net.
May we add our congratulations to this great success as Canadian ambassadors in Austria. It proves once again that music builds the best bridges.
Until next time
Sybille Forster-Rentmeister
Comments to: sfr@echoworld.com
