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Russia’s economy growth to revive bilateral trade ties - Austria’s foreign minister

"Good relationship traditionally unites Austria and Russia," Kurz said

MOSCOW, May 4. /TASS/. A bilateral trade dialogue of Austria and Russia could be revived when there are no signs of the crisis in Russia’s economy, Austrian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Integration Sebastian Kurz said in an interview with TASS ahead of a working visit to Russia.

"Good relationship traditionally unites Austria and Russia," Kurz said. "In recent years we have succeeded in highlighting encouraging points in all spheres, for instance with the help of Austria’s 2013/2014 cultural season in Russia and Russia’s 2014/2015 cultural season in Austria. Besides, Austrian companies took part in preparations for the Winter Olympics in Sochi."

Along with this, the Austrian foreign minister noted that a considerable decline in bilateral trade was registered in the past year.

"In 2014 Austria’s imports and exports to Russia were seen plunging down," he said. "But the matter is not in the sanctions. Another solid reason is negative growth forecasts inside Russia. So due to the weakening rouble, the number of Russian travellers to Austria is on decline."

"Thus, further improvement of economic relations will depend on development of the situation inside Russia," the Austrian foreign minister said. "I think in the current situation clearly-defined framework conditions and legal guarantees should be especially vital for both entrepreneurs and investors.".