Austrian 34-Year-Old Chancellor Re-Elected... Right-Wing People's Party and Green Party Coalition Agreement Reached

Born in August 1986, becoming the world's youngest prime minister

New Austrian government embraces characteristics of both major parties

Stricter immigrant control·Expanded response to climate change expected

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jaehee] Austria's leading party, the right-wing People's Party, and the Green Party have reached a sudden agreement to form a coalition government. Accordingly, former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz (34) is expected to become the world's youngest prime minister once again.

According to foreign media including AFP, former Chancellor Kurz announced on the 1st (local time) after about three months of coalition negotiations between the People's Party and the Green Party that "a great result has been achieved."

As a result, former Chancellor Kurz will once again become the head of the Austrian government and the world's youngest prime minister.

Born in August 1986, Kurz is 33 years old. The current world's youngest leader is Sanna Marin, born in November 1985, who took office as Finland's prime minister earlier this month.

Having become chancellor at the age of 31 in 2017, Kurz has taken a stance opposing immigration inflows, resisting the political establishment in Europe.

Contrasting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who pursued inclusive policies toward Middle Eastern immigrants, he has maintained an anti-immigration line, drawing criticism for undermining European unity.

In recent years, Kurz has solidified his political base by leveraging the rising anti-immigration sentiment and nationalism in Europe, advocating strict border controls and crackdowns on undocumented immigrants.

Accordingly, the newly formed Austrian government is expected to feature a tough stance on undocumented immigrants alongside efforts to address climate change.

Kurz explained, "We have succeeded in combining the strengths of both sides," stating that border protection advocated by the People's Party and climate protection championed by the Green Party will be possible.

Werner Kogler, leader of the Green Party, also stated that it was necessary for both parties to "build bridges" together for Austria's future. He added that Austria would take the lead as a pioneering country in Europe regarding the pressing issue of climate change.

On this day, the two leaders introduced tax reduction policies and plans to expand environmental taxes in a joint statement. Specific government plans are scheduled to be announced on the 2nd.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.