Austrian Parliament adopts agreement on social security with Serbia

The Austrian Parliament adopted new agreement on social security agreed with Serbia and which should protected acquired rights in the hospital and retirement insurance in two countries, as well as insurance in cases of accidents and unemployment.

At the same time, the agreement on social security with ex Yugoslavia was annulled and its implementation on Kosovo was suspended.

- The agreement with Serbia brings even stronger legal security to the people in need – Ditmar Kek, the member of the Socio-Democrat party of Austria estimated in yesterday’s debate.

He pointed out that the agreement is of interest to the Austrians spending holidays in Serbia.

Kek has, in line with the meeting protocol delivered to Tanjug, said he expected the agreement for Kosovo to be signed as soon as possible.

His party colleague, Ervin Schpindelberger said that social agreements are necessary because many people during their work time change countries and they should not face problems when obtaining insurance rights in different countries.

He also mentioned that the agreement enables to avoid double insurance.

Member of the Libertarian Party Dagmar Belakowitsch-Jenewein supported the suspension of the agreement in Kosovo and added that it was essential to analyze other agreements on social security as well, i.e. to check if the payments move in only one direction.

Member of the Green, Karl Elinger, estimated that the agreement on social security was useful, pointing out that the Austrians travelling to Serbia expect they can be provided with medical care which this document provides.

When it comes to the suspension of the agreement in Kosovo, the member of the National party, Osvald Klikowits said it was a consequence of Pristina not being able to fulfill its commitments.

Therefore, he approves of the agreement suspensions expressing belief that Kosovo will soon be able to set up legal security in this field.