NEWS

AmCham Round Table on Biden Administration Priorities

On Thursday, February 25th, 2021 the U.S. Embassy in Austria’s Chargé d’Affaires Robin Dunnigan met in a virtual Round Table setting with members of the Board of AmCham Austria to discuss the new approach of the Biden Administration to U.S. trade policy and economic recovery.

After a warm welcome from AmCham President Martin Winkler, U.S. Embassy Commercial Counselor Julia Rauner introduced Chargé d’Affaires Robin Dunnigan, as well as the Embassy’s Economic Chief Amy Dove and Commercial Specialist Jan Bruckner.

AmCham President Martin Winkler and Board Members discussed a wide range of topics during the Round Table including the rise of protectionism, corporate relocation, double taxation and trade tariffs, smart and green tech, smart mobility for corporate staff between US and Austria, market access for companies, privacy issues, digital services tax and economic recovery after COVID. The Build-Back-America-Better Plan of the new administration envisions significant investments in infrastructure, work force development, R&D and innovation and will have a positive impact on the United States, as well as the EU economy. Chargé Dunnigan noted that President Biden and Secretary of State Blinken have both delivered a clear message regarding the U.S. relationship with Europe: The transatlantic alliance and transatlantic unity are back.

Chargé Dunnigan is also optimistic about the potential of working together on the topics of sustainability, climate, and green business, as Austria is one of the few countries in Europe with a government coalition that includes the Green Party. She sees Austria as an important voice within the EU.

The United States will focus on what they and Europe have in common, such as our shared values, human rights, multilateralism, democracy. Thousands of jobs are created through U.S. companies in Austria. Being a reliable global partner will resonate and improve the mood in the public opinion again. The Biden administration will make a positive difference in working together.