The Green Party of England and Wales has sent its congratulations to Alexander Van der Bellen, former head of the Greens, on winning the presidential election in Austria.
Jonathan Bartley, co-leader of the Green Party, said:
“In Austria this weekend people chose to vote for hope over fear. The far-right presidential candidate lost against the former Green leader Alexander Van Der Bellen.
“It comes at a time when those sowing division and hatred are seeking to capitalise on economic and social insecurity. This is a victory for all those who believe we can tackle the great challenges of our age in a better way.
“Congratulations from the Green Party of England and Wales!”
Molly Scott Cato MEP, Green Party spokesperson for EU relations, said:
“I am delighted that Alexander van de Bellen, former leader of the Austrian Green Party, has been elected as Austria's new President. This puts a spanner in the works of the myth machine that suggests electorates across Europe are embracing the far right. It also clearly identifies that Greens are not tarnished by being associated with failed political elites nor afraid to name and fight fascism.
“Many Europeans welcome the open and cosmopolitan culture of our continent that was enshrined in van de Bellen's campaign enshrined. Those of us who feel ourselves to be global citizens should not lose heart and should stand firm and proud in our rejection of the siren song of a narrow and self-serving nationalism.”