According to ÖVP and SPÖ, there will be no information today, Tuesday, about who is exchanging views on which topics. It is planned to go public only when it is clear whether a coalition is possible. This decision should not take too long to be made.

Decision by ÖVP and SPÖ Possibly by the Next Plenary

For ÖVP and SPÖ had already determined in the joint negotiations with the NEOS where there is consensus and where there is dissent. Therefore, it is now only a matter of exploring compromises where it was not possible by the beginning of January. Budget issues were at the forefront. This time, they do not want to communicate publicly, so an information blackout has been imposed. It is considered possible that a decision could be reached by the next plenary session of the National Council next week, but it is by no means certain.

This is also because it is still undecided whether ÖVP and SPÖ are aiming for only a two-party coalition. This would be risky insofar as the two parties have only one surplus mandate in the National Council. If one disregards the fact that there are explicit opponents of the coalition within the SPÖ, such as the Burgenland state organization and the leadership of the Styrian state party, even a single absent mandate for any reason would cost the Black-Red coalition its majority.

Negotiations by ÖVP and SPÖ with Other Parties Pending

Therefore, they will certainly approach the other parties to at least conclude thematic partnerships with them. It is assumed that a corresponding offer would also be made to the Freedom Party, to prevent them from gaining a sort of opposition monopoly. However, whether the other parties will also be directly integrated into a coalition through agreements or personnel is still open. A genuine three-party coalition, as was originally planned with the NEOS, is considered rather unlikely. However, a reliable partner is urgently needed for the upcoming adoption of a double budget.

AK President Anderl Expects Clarity Soon in Coalition Negotiations

On Tuesday, the social democratic Chamber of Labor President Renate Anderl expressed confidence for a quick conclusion. Those who have now come together for talks are very aware of their responsibility, she said in response to a press conference inquiry: "What I hear is that they are good talks." She expects "very soon" clear statements on how things should actually proceed. She was "not unhappy" that the talks between FPÖ and ÖVP were broken off. When asked about content, Anderl was very reserved. Only regarding the bank levy did she say that a model is needed that actually delivers results. A "light bank levy," as was on the table in the failed coalition talks between FPÖ and ÖVP, would not help reduce the budget deficit from the perspective of the AK President. She wants to maintain educational leave, but it needs an evaluation.

(APA/Red)

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