VIENNA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Austrian President Heinz Fischer on the occasion of the Austrian national day on Friday highlighted the "peace project" that is Europe.
"If we respect each other and all European nations appreciate one another, then we will not only be immune to the dangers of xenophobia or aggressive nationalism, but we will also strengthen and consolidate social peace," he said in a televised speech.
Fischer acknowledged that "uncertainty and discomfort" existed on the topic of Europe, but said "Europe is and will remain a peace project."
Europe had successfully banished war from its member countries, Fischer added, which had led to it being recently award the Nobel Peace Prize.
Touching on Austria, he said dissatisfaction and reservations existed, and that the country was "no island of the blessed."
He said the country was not, however, as poorly managed "as portrayed by some," but was "overall a very livable and lovable country."
Democracy was also important, he said, and that it was up to each generation to fight against abuses and aberrations.
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