VIENNA, June 5. /TASS/. Russia’s plans to increase gas deliveries to Europe, including with the help of the Nord Stream-2 project, enjoy Austria’s support, Russian President Vladimir Putin said after negotiations with Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen on Tuesday.

"Russia’s plans to increase gas deliveries to European consumers, including the Nord Stream-2 project, other energy and infrastructure projects enjoy the support of Austrian partners. We will undoubtedly continue discussing this important issue with the federal chancellor of Austria as well," Putin said.

As the Russian leader said, energy is a key aspect of Russia-Austria interaction and the current visit has been timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the first contract for the delivery of natural gas from the Soviet Union to Austria.

"Over this period, more than 200 billion cubic meters of natural gas have been exported to the Austrian market. Austria has turned into a key, if not one of the most important hubs for the transportation of Russian gas to Western Europe and plays a major role in ensuring the energy security of the entire European continent," the Russian president said.