Austrian chancellor keen to explore renewables and hydrogen collaboration with UAE

Sebastian Kurz says the Emirates is Austria's most important Arab trading partner

Sebastian Kurz says his country is keen to work with the UAE in the fields of renewables and hydrogen technology. Dominic Ebenbichler / Reuters

Austria's Chancellor Sebastian Kurz spoke of his country's strong ties with the UAE ahead of a visit by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

Mr Kurz was set to welcome Sheikh Mohamed to Vienna on Thursday.

He said the Emirates was his country's most important trading partner in the Arab world and that Austrian direct foreign investment in the UAE totalled more than 7 billion euros.

"The UAE is one of our most important partners in the Arab region... and it is Austria's most important economic partner in the Arab World," he told state news agency Wam.

He said strong relations between the two nations brought benefits for all involved.

"The visit of the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi is a source of great pleasure and honour for us," he said.

"There are many opportunities to expand our economic relations, especially in the field of renewable energy sources and hydrogen technology."

He spoke of the UAE's focus on renewable and sustainable energies and highlighted that Austrian oil and gas conglomerate OMV already works closely with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc).

Mr Kurz also spoke of a "hydrogen alliance" between the two nations.

"We strive to work more closely together, especially in the field of renewable energies and hydrogen."

Mr Kurz said the two countries work closely together on foreign policy and "we have great interest in achieving stability and economic development in the Arab region".

He noted that Alexander Schallenberg, Austria's Foreign Minister, is working closely with Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, to execute the strategic partnership.

He touched on the need to combat violent extremism and said he viewed the recent normalisation of relations between Israel and several Arab nations, including the UAE and Bahrain, as a very positive development.

Austria all set for Expo 2020 Dubai

The chancellor said his country was already looking forward to showcasing everything they have to offer at Expo 2020 Dubai, which starts on October 1 and runs until March 31, 2022.

Last month, the country unveiled its unique pavilion design. Using almost no air conditioning, the pavilion is designed to allow cool air to circulate by utilising a mix of old and new technology and techniques.

"For us, the exhibition is an opportunity to present Austria as a centre for innovation, green technology and the digital economy," he said, adding that about 50 inventions and technologies will be showcased by Austrian companies.

"Participation in the exhibition is very important for Austria, which is visible with the number of high-level visitors from Austria to the exhibition."

Austria showcases its pavilion for Expo 2020 Dubai. It is inspired by innovations of the country’s past and its move towards a more sustainable future. Courtesy: Austria Pavilion

The pavilion is built from overturned cones from a 9,000-year-old soil called loam, containing silt and clay.

The pavilion will operate on 70 per cent less energy than a conventionally air-conditioned building in the UAE.

It has been fitted with fogging technology to keep visitors cool as they explore the structure.

With its tag ‘Austria makes sense’, the structure combines ecology and technology to set a strong signal for climate protection.