Ursula Plassnik Austrian Foreign Minister Country: Austria

1. Ursula Plassnik: A Biography
2. A Diplomat with Experience
3. A Notable Figure
4. A Complex Personality

Ursula Plassnik: A Biography

Ursula Plassnik, born in Klagenfurt, Carinthia, is a prominent figure in Austrian politics. With her height of around 190 centimeters, she literally stands head and shoulders above most ministers. Although she prefers to remain in the shadows when in public or interacting with the press, those who know Ursula well claim that she is a highly influential figure within Chancellor Wolfgang Schüssel's circle.

A Diplomat with Experience

Ursula Plassnik currently serves as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Austria, bringing with her a 20-year career in the field of foreign policy. Her predecessor, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, went on to become a European Commissioner. With her extensive experience and diplomatic expertise, Ursula Plassnik has proven herself to be a capable and respected leader.

A Notable Figure

At 58 years old, Ursula Plassnik is a woman who stands out in many ways. Her towering height and commanding presence make her impossible to miss. However, despite her visible stature, she prefers to keep a low profile when it comes to public appearances. Those who are acquainted with Ursula assert that she holds considerable influence within Chancellor Schüssel's circle and wields many of the secret threads of power.

A Complex Personality

Ursula Plassnik may appear cold and emotionless on the surface, but her university friends have noted her compassionate nature. However, they also highlight her straightforwardness and toughness. Although a member of the conservative Austrian People's Party, she maintains left-leaning views. This is not surprising, given her upbringing in a "red" environment. Ursula's parents, both teachers by profession, always shared the views of social democrats. Interestingly, her first husband, the current Speaker of Parliament, Georg Poss, with whom Ursula spent only eight months, also leaned towards the left. Her second husband was a Swiss diplomat named Gerard Stoudmann, but they divorced last year.