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VIENNA, Austria — Speaking at the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence, Ambassador Hannah Liko, Director General for Political Affairs at the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, hailed the deep-rooted ties between Austria and the Philippines, emphasizing shared values, booming economic cooperation, and the vital role of the Filipino diaspora.
The milestone celebration, held on June 12, 2026, took place in the gardens of the historic Stift Klosterneuburg in Lower Austria. The diplomatic gathering brought together Filipino community leaders and members of the diplomatic corps, including Philippine Ambassador to Austria Evangelina Lourdes Arroyo-Bernas and embassy officials.
Deep Gratitude for the Filipino Community
Opening her remarks on behalf of Austria’s Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Director General Liko expressed solidarity with the Philippines following a recent earthquake, extending heartfelt condolences to the victims.
Turning to the vibrant relationship between the two nations, Liko praised the thousands of Filipinos who call Austria home.
“Austria is very grateful for the Filipino community,” Liko said. “I want to recognize the Filipino community since you enrich the Austrian society in every aspect of Austrian life.”
Booming Trade and Regional Alliances
The Director General highlighted a major milestone in bilateral trade, noting that commercial volume between the two nations has shattered records to exceed €400 million.
Liko noted that the Philippines is increasingly viewed as a highly strategic hub for Austrian businesses looking to invest in Southeast Asia, particularly in high-growth sectors. “We have more and more Austrian companies that are interested to be present. They see the Philippines as a strategic place to do trade and to invest in green technology and infrastructure,” she observed.
Beyond bilateral commerce, Liko emphasized the critical bridge the two countries build between their respective regional blocs—Austria as a member of the European Union (EU) and the Philippines as a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). She called for both regions to actively “fill this relationship with cooperation in innovation and green technology.”
Finding Friendship in a Divided World
Acknowledging the growing geopolitical friction across the globe, Liko underscored that the thousands of kilometers separating Vienna and Manila are easily bridged by shared democratic values. She noted that both nations remain fiercely committed to mutual respect, human dignity, social equity, and women’s empowerment.
“In today’s world that is very divided and where we have complicated and complex situations worldwide, it is important that despite the thousands of kilometers that separate us, we find friendship and mutual trust,” Liko stated.
A Nod to Jose Rizal and the Future
In a poignant closing, the Director General channeled the spirit of the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, recalling his enduring belief that the youth hold the key to tomorrow.
Liko framed Rizal’s words as a modern call to action for both Austria and the Philippines to jointly mentor the next generation and pioneer solutions for global harmony.
“I think this is a mission for us,” Liko concluded. “Countries like Austria and the Philippines, we have the task for the future to find solutions in this complex world—to work together and to cooperate on bringing peace and stability, as far as we can, to regions worldwide.”
- Hector Pascua
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