Scientific Cooperation, International dialogue and Stefan Zweig’s humanist legacy at the centre of discussions with Israeli Ambassador David Roet

During the visit of Israeli Ambassador David Roet, discussions focused on scientific cooperation with Israel’s leading universities, international dialogue, and the humanist legacy of Stefan Zweig.

The University of Salzburg welcomed the Israeli Ambassador, David Roet, for an official visit on 29 and 30 July 2026. Together with Rector Bernhard Fügenschuh, Dr Helga Rabl-Stadler, the University of Salzburg’s International Cultural Ambassador, and MMag. Yariv M. Sultan, Chief Philanthropy Officer of the University of Salzburg, the parties explored opportunities for further strengthening the academic and cultural ties between Austria and Israel. The programme also included visits to the Neue Residenz and the Stefan Zweig Centre at Edmundsburg.

“Israel ranks among the world’s leading scientific nations. Cooperation with our Israeli partner universities strengthens our research and opens up new perspectives for both students and scholars. Science builds bridges, particularly at times when political or societal challenges make divisions more visible. Personal exchange between researchers and students fosters trust and mutual understanding. If we are to prepare the next generation to address the major challenges of our time, we must promote international cooperation and encourage open dialogue across national and cultural boundaries,” emphasised Rector Bernhard Fügenschuh.

For many years, the University of Salzburg has maintained close relationships with renowned universities in more than 90 countries, including Israel. Partnerships with universities in Jerusalem, Haifa, Tel Aviv and Be’er Sheva encompass joint research projects, scholarly publications, and the exchange of students and researchers. These global collaborations reflect the conviction that academic excellence flourishes where individuals with diverse perspectives work together and share knowledge across borders.

A particular focus of the visit was the legacy of the Salzburg-born writer Stefan Zweig. Few authors embody so profoundly the ideal of an outward-looking Europe and the power of dialogue across national and cultural boundaries. His message of humanism, mutual understanding and respect remains especially pertinent in light of current global developments. Through the Stefan Zweig Centre at Edmundsburg, the University of Salzburg not only preserves this legacy but continues to develop it as a vibrant forum for scholarly reflection and international exchange. It is here, in particular, that the capacity of education, science and culture to build bridges between individuals, institutions and societies becomes vividly apparent.