Austria's Coalition Talks Expand to Include Neos Party

Austria's conservative People's Party and Social Democrats have expanded their coalition talks to include the liberal Neos party, aiming for a solid parliamentary majority. With the Freedom Party's failed coalition attempt, the three-party discussions are progressing rapidly and could reach an agreement soon.

Austria's conservative People's Party (OVP) and Social Democrats (SPO) have expanded their coalition discussions to involve the liberal Neos party, seeking a clear parliamentary majority. This move marks a return to the format initially attempted after September's election, which the far-right Freedom Party won with approximately 29% of the votes. The previous centrist coalition attempt collapsed, leading the Freedom Party to attempt and fail to form a government.

The OVP and SPO would narrowly secure a one-seat majority in the lower house, which is deemed insufficient, prompting the inclusion of the Neos party. Party officials indicated that negotiations are advancing rapidly and an agreement might be finalized by next week. In a joint statement, the three parties announced ongoing talks and postponed a previously speculated visit to President Alexander Van der Bellen, who supervises government formations.

Later in the day, another joint statement confirmed that discussions would continue on Saturday, with a briefing scheduled for President Van der Bellen. He urged parties to prioritize compromise and the national interest, a sentiment hinting at some challenges within the negotiations. Although initially integral to the negotiations, the Neos' role seems more limited now, with potential control over the education ministry or the foreign or justice ministries.