MOSCOW, March 2. /TASS/. Russia will adequately respond in case of new unfriendly steps by Austria against Russian diplomats, Russia's permanent envoy to international organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov told TASS in an interview.

"In such cases, we engage the principle of reciprocity in diplomacy. Recently four Austrian diplomats working in Moscow had to return home. In case of new unfriendly steps on the part of Austria, an adequate response will follow again," he said.

Ulyanov stressed that the mission, despite the recent expulsion of two of its staff, was trying to fully work on the current agenda. "Naturally, some staff reductions have led to some increase in the workload of the remaining staff," he acknowledged, "But our staff is very strong and they are very professional and have very responsible attitudes."

The possible reduction of the staff in Vienna, the diplomat said, "depends on the position of the Austrian authorities." "On their willingness to faithfully perform the duties of the country that hosts international organizations and diplomatic staff from many countries around the world, including Russia," he added.

According to the diplomat, the mission, taking into the account the fact that it functions with numerous international organizations located in the Austrian capital, is in a more favorable position than many other Russian foreign offices in Western countries, with which relations are maintained only through bilateral channels. "Yes, it has become more difficult to work, but the activities of international structures and organizations continue, and Russia still plays a very prominent role in them," Ulyanov concluded.