The ministers exchanged information on the situation in their respective countries and on measures taken to stem the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic. They specifically addressed issues related to border crossings for persons, goods, and services, agreeing that it is vital to ensure the smoothest possible cross-border operations.

They stressed the importance of unifying these measures at the EU level and went on to support the introduction of a common European travel registration form, emphasising the need to ensure personal data protection. They also supported plans to ensure the interoperability of mobile contact tracing and warning apps between the Member States.

The foreign ministers voiced support for the European Commission’s initiatives on vaccines and on their joint public procurement, as they considered that it would allow all Member States to have access to the widest possible range of safe COVID-19 vaccines at the lowest possible prices, under the same conditions, and in the same manner.

Minister Logar called for the early implementation of the new Recovery and Resilience Facility – a tool for providing financial support to reforms and investments undertaken by Member States in the wake of the pandemic. He also drew attention to the importance of solidarity between countries in the current health crisis.

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg spoke about Monday’s terrorist attack in Vienna. He expressed thanks for the support, solidarity, and condolences received after the tragic event. The ministers strongly condemned Monday’s attack and all forms of violence and terrorism that pose a threat to security, human values, and people’s confidence in a peaceful and dignified way of life.