Austrian election

Commenting on the election of Alexander Van der Bellen as Austrian president, Greens/EFA co-president Philippe Lamberts said:

"We warmly congratulate Alexander Van der Bellen on his election as president of Austria. This is a momentous day for the Greens in Austria and Europe. However, it is also a momentous day for all those who are opposed to rising populism and nationalism in Europe."

Greens/EFA co-president Rebecca Harms said:

"Clearly, it is not an easy moment for him to assume office. The tight result is indicative of a divided country and a major task for the new president will be to find a way out of this polarisation towards a liberal, open and European Austria. Alexander Van der Bellen has clear credentials to deliver this and to help contribute to a forward-looking European Union."