oho #3 - The magazine of the Principality of Liechtenstein

oho#3
The relations are excellent, have grown
and developed over many years, are
amicable, close and resilient. We are
bound together by over 40 treaties, an
open border and the EEA. Liechtenstein is
a valued employer for many Austrians. In
the fields of taxes and regional transport, there
are in-depth discussions at the expert level.
You have now been Ambassador in Vienna for eighteen
years. When you look back: what event would you
describe as your personal highlight?
There have been a number of highlights: the opening of
the Liechtenstein Embassy in the year 1998, the state
visits associated with the restoration of the two
Liechtenstein Palaces in Vienna in the years 2004 and
2013, as well as the positive conclusion of the negotiations
concerning the restoration of diplomatic relations with the
Czech Republic in the year 2009, which were conducted
over a three-year period in Vienna. For an ambassador,
though, these highlights are not the main source of
satisfaction. Instead, what really matters is the sense that
one has helped to strengthen relations between two
countries, and that our country is seen positively in
Austria, even during difficult moments. This was the case
in particular in conjunction with certain financial market
issues. Negative “highlights” are the crisis in Ukraine, and
the general security situation in Europe, which occupies
us at the OSCE and is hindering the ability of Europe to
cooperate.
Her Serene Highness Ambassador Maria-Pia Kothbauer (centre)
with Prime Minister Adrian Hasler and Minister Aurelia Frick at
the traditional Liechtenstein Embassy Reception in 2015 at the
Garden Palace in Vienna.
Despite all the efforts that have been
made, Liechtenstein is still “terra
incognita” for many people in Austria.
How would you explain Liechtenstein to
an Austrian, in just one sentence?
One of Austria’s eight neighbours, closely
related to Vorarlberg in terms of landscape and
character, a German-speaking constitutional hereditary
monarchy with a highly-developed system of direct
democracy, economically liberal, business-friendly and
innovative, simultaneously urban and rural, debt-free, a
country with a very high quality of life.
Liechtenstein is going through a period of structural
change. Where do you see the risks – and where are the
opportunities?
By and large, the inhabitants of Liechtenstein are selfcritical
and pragmatic. This is a good starting position for
structural change and innovation. The opportunities lie in
the fact that we take steps earlier than other people, and
are consequently able to find ample space in hard-fought
markets. While the business side is certainly an important
factor, I think it is also worth remembering that we remain
as broad-based as possible, and in future provide space for
professions in the arts to flourish in our country. In the
social field, we need to ensure that social cohesion is
preserved.
What “insider tips” would you recommend to someone
from Vienna visiting Liechtenstein for the first time?
A hike through Schellenberg, a visit to the Russian
Memorial, and then cheese gnocchi at the “Löwen” in
Hinterschellenberg – at the little border crossing between
Austria and Liechtenstein.
How important are the following values
for you?
Freedom: One must use and defend it.
Money: Gives one the opportunity to get things done.
Privacy: I don’t think about this very much.
Honesty: A very admirable character trait,
and a daily challenge.
Family: I am really happy that I have one.
Politics: Have always interested me.
Sport: I lack Churchill’s self-assurance. I always have
a bad conscience when I think about sport.
Quality of life: My current experiences.
Liechtenstein: In great shape.
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