Vladimir Putin signed an order to award a Certificate of Merit from the President of the Russian Federation to Peter Sixl, a citizen of the Austrian Republic and active historian, for his contribution to immortalising the memory of the Soviet citizens who died on Austrian territory during World War II.

The President of Russia will make an official visit to Austria on June 24 at the invitation of President of the Republic of Austria Heinz Fischer.

Vladimir Putin visited the Austria Tyrol House in Krasnaya Polyana, where he spoke with legendary ski racer Karl Schranz and with media representatives.

Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Ivanov made a working visit to Austria. Mr Ivanov had talks in Vienna with President of Austria Heinz Fischer and Austrian Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger, and spoke at the International Anti-Corruption Academy’s assembly.

Dmitry Medvedev and President of Austria Heinz Fischer discussed trade and economic ties, the implementation of joint projects in energy and transport, in particular the construction of the South Stream gas pipeline and the extension of a broad-gauge railway, as well as cooperation in science, technology and the humanitarian sphere.

Federal President of the Republic of Austria Dr Heinz Fischer will pay an official visit to Russia on May 18–21, 2011 at President of Russia's invitation.

Dmitry Medvedev congratulated Heinz Fischer on his reelection as President of Austria.

Following tradition, the presentation ceremony took place in the Grand Kremlin Palace’s St Alexander Hall.