The Second Austrian Republic refers to the modern state of Austria established after World War II in 1945. It succeeded the First Austrian Republic, which existed from 1918 to 1934. The new republic was formed during the Allied occupation and aimed to rebuild the country, promote democracy, and integrate into the European community. In 1955, the Austrian State Treaty was signed, ending the occupation and restoring Austria's sovereignty. This treaty declared Austria a neutral country, which has been a cornerstone of its foreign policy. The Second Austrian Republic has since developed into a stable democracy and a member of the European Union.