The leaders of the three parties informed President Alexander Van der Bellen on Saturday afternoon that they aim to form a government, as stated by the head of state in a subsequent statement. ÖVP leader Christian Stocker expressed being “very optimistic” about finalizing the government program. SPÖ leader Andreas Babler emphasized the goal of achieving “stable conditions as soon as possible.”

Following the meeting, Van der Bellen stated that he felt “something has really progressed.” He observed not only a willingness to compromise but also a shared focus on the common goal of advancing the country. He stressed the importance of this, as much was at stake.

“It’s not just about balancing the state budget, but also about ‘repairing the mood in the country, creating new confidence,'” Van der Bellen said. He acknowledged that the coming years would be challenging, partly due to the geopolitical situation. Europe must act, and Austria will play its role. He also mentioned the need for a “decisive approach” to internal security, possibly alluding to the terror attack in Villach. Van der Bellen emphasized that progress should be made “swiftly and sustainably” and hoped that a new government would aim to bring Austria back to the forefront.

Stocker Optimistic for “Timely” Government Formation

After the statements, no questions from journalists were allowed. When asked whether he expected to become Chancellor, Stocker declined to comment upon leaving the room. In his statement, however, he radiated optimism: the discussions showed that there was a common base for finding compromises and new solutions for Austria, said the acting ÖVP leader. He assured that they would strive to form the government “timely.”

Since FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl had stepped down from government formation talks after negotiations with Stocker over a Blue-Black coalition, “intensive discussions” had taken place to build a joint federal government based on what was developed in the fall during the tripartite negotiations. Stocker mentioned key topics such as security, making life affordable, focusing on education, and implementing reforms for a leaner state.

Babler: “Very Intense Days and Nights”

Babler emphasized that national interests had been placed before party interests. He agreed with President Van der Bellen’s recent call for more willingness to compromise, mutual “approach,” and communication “on equal terms.” “We’ve had very intense days and nights behind us,” he said, adding that they were now starting a “finalization process.” Babler acknowledged that the time was long overdue, and his goal was for people not to worry about politics but for politics to work towards making their lives easier.

Meinl-Reisinger: “We’re Not Quite There Yet”

“It’s a difficult situation,” said NEOS leader Beate Meinl-Reisinger, acknowledging that “the past days, weeks, and months have been a test of patience for the public.” “We’re in the final stretch, but we’re not quite there yet,” she said. “Not everything has been solved, there are still open questions,” she admitted, but noted that they saw ways to overcome the “blockages” from the first attempt. Meinl-Reisinger pointed out that much had changed since January: FPÖ and ÖVP failed to form a government, and the geopolitical situation had shifted, explaining why NEOS initially walked away from negotiations but now resumed talks.

In the afternoon, Meinl-Reisinger made an impromptu and well-received appearance at a meeting of the Vienna NEOS, where she also reiterated: “No, we’re not done. It’s not all settled.” However, she remained optimistic: “I believe it’s possible.”

Education to Be a Key Topic Tomorrow

Meinl-Reisinger revealed that discussions would continue intensively, rotating through different participants, with education being a central topic the following day. They were working hard and focusing on making significant progress. The tentative schedule was for the party committees to meet next weekend, and if an agreement is reached, a member vote would be planned for Sunday, March 2.

The Potential Coalition’s Formation Surprises Many

It’s somewhat surprising that the three parties are now seemingly coming together. The first attempt failed with NEOS’s exit on January 3, followed by mutual hostilities. Although ÖVP and SPÖ could have formed a majority on their own, it would have been secured by just one mandate. Ultimately, they decided to invite NEOS back as a fixed partner in the coalition.

“Nice to see you again here in the Hofburg, thank you for your interest,” President Van der Bellen greeted journalists on Saturday, acknowledging that the government formation has taken an unusually long time since the election in late September.

Not All NEOS Members Support the Coalition

Although the signs now point to a tripartite coalition, it is not yet certain. One condition is that NEOS members must approve the coalition pact at a party meeting, which is expected to take place at the end of next week. Some high-ranking members of the party are not enthusiastic about the coalition, as demonstrated by Tyrolean regional leader Dominik Oberhofer’s rejection of the deal in the “Kronen Zeitung.”

“We have an offer with two ministries and a state secretary, but I miss the reforms. NEOS stands for reforms, not jobs,” said the National Council member. According to “Heute,” four members of the NEOS extended board opposed the coalition talks. In his speech at the NEOS state membership meeting, Vienna party leader Christoph Wiederkehr emphasized that finding common solutions and compromises was necessary. “We need to come together and be willing to make a change.”

Criticism from FPÖ, Cheers from Greens

The FPÖ responded with criticism to the renewed tripartite talks. General Secretary Michael Schnedlitz called it the “greatest voter betrayal in recent political history,” accusing the ÖVP of starting negotiations with SPÖ and NEOS before the election to ensure they could continue to hold the position of Chancellor. Babler and Meinl-Reisinger were labeled “political stepping stones,” and Schnedlitz stated that this “government of the losers” would not be able to bring about any necessary change or hope for the people.

In contrast, Green Party leader Werner Kogler wished the potential new coalition a successful start. “The danger of a far-right FPÖ Chancellor has been averted for now, and a pro-European government is in sight. This is good news,” Kogler said, while also expressing criticism of the budget plans and announcing a constructive opposition role for his party.