Austrian economy, agriculture ministers step down

Both ministers were close to former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, who resigned last October, says local media

By Ahmet Gencturk

ANKARA (AA) – Austria’s economy and agriculture ministers, both from the ruling Austrian People’s Party (OVP), have stepped down, local media reported Monday.

Announcing her resignation, Economy Minister Margarethe Schramböck thanked former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz and current Chancellor Karl Nehammer, saying: “It was an honor for me to work for Austria, and I thank you for the trust.”

Kurz, who both departing Cabinet ministers were reportedly close to, stepped down last October over corruption allegations.

Announcing her departure, Agriculture Minister Elisabeth Kostinger said she intends to quit politics, according to the public broadcaster ORF.

“With Sebastian Kurz’s decision to leave politics, it was also clear to me that I would close this chapter,” she told a press conference.

Kostinger also reviewed her 13-year political career, highlighting as accomplishments a common agricultural policy, broadband expansion, pandemic management, and mandatory food labeling, ORF added.

In the runup to a party congress, rumors are growing about possible departures from the OVP, it added.

Kaynak:

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