The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Austria on the occasion of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding:
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On February 20, United States Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Lee Satterfield and Austrian Ambassador Petra Schneebauer signed the first Professional Development and Cultural Exchange Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Republic of Austria and the United States, to establish a reciprocal exchange arrangement. This MOU expands on existing exchanges by opening opportunities for technical and vocational students in Austria and the United States. This exchange will strengthen the people-to-people dimension of the strategic partnership between the United States and Austria, increase mutual understanding between Austrians and U.S. citizens, reinforce the links between our nations, and help young people in both countries gain valuable skills and experience.
Austrian citizens, between 18 and 30 years of age who are enrolled in or recently graduated from an Austrian-accredited post-secondary or a dual/vocational education program will be eligible to participate. Similarly, United States citizens aged 18 to 30 years of age who have recently graduated from a United States degree, diploma, or certificate granting educational institution will be eligible. The United States is expanding educational exchange opportunities, enabling post-secondary or vocational education students to participate alongside students from colleges and universities.
The signing took place at the Embassy of Austria in Washington, DC. Students from area vocational and technical schools were in attendance, alongside representatives of exchange sponsor organizations and government officials.
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