Arnold honors Krainer:

“I became a politician because of Joschi”

Arnold Schwarzenegger - with Governor Christopher Drexler and Krainer's son Ferdinand - unveiled the bust of the deceased governor.(Bild: Christian Jauschowetz)

A big welcome for a great son of Styria in Graz: Arnold Schwarzenegger unveiled a bust of his friend Josef Krainer in the castle: "He was a Superman!"

A flurry of flashbulbs and applause for Arnold Schwarzenegger at 1 p.m. in Graz Castle: the US superstar, who has been in the provincial capital since Sunday evening, unveiled a bust of the late Governor Josef Krainer, which he had commissioned himself. "It will stand near an oak tree planted in Schwarzenegger's honor in the Burggarten," said Governor Christopher Drexler, delighted with the beautiful gesture. "Joschi was my friend and he helped me to get Austrian and American citizenship," reported "Arnie" in front of around 60 members of the Krainer family. "He was a superman and the reason why I went into politics."

Schwarzenegger, who was also the governor of California, recalled in particular the office hours that Josef Krainer held as governor: "He was a good politician. He was the best servant of the people!" There was also praise for Drexler, whom Arnold thanked for his work for Styria. The governor in turn returned the favor with two gifts: a Rosegger janker in green and an Arzberger Stollenkäse. 

A Rosegger janker from the governor.(Bild: Christian Jauschowetz)

Following the unveiling of the bust, the "Styrian Oak" mingled with the guests, shook hands and was happy to take selfies - before heading to lunch with the Governor.