Austrian president Thomas Klestil insists common European values of democracy and pluralism will continue to apply.

BBC: Haider in power: A danger to Europe?

Austrian President Thomas Klestil held separate meetings with Mr Haider and Mr Schuessel, on Monday, to get updates on the progress of coalition talks.

BBC: EU threat to Austria

President Thomas Klestil of Austria, where the king kept a winter residence and was close to the leadership, said his country had lost "a great friend".

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