McDonald’s has long been seen around the world as a cultural ambassador for the US, but it seems the fast food chain is taking on a more formal diplomatic role.

Americans who find themselves in need of consular assistance in Austria will soon be able to turn to Ronald McDonald for help.

The US embassy in Vienna has signed an agreement with McDonald’s for staff at its burger restaurants to help American citizens get in touch with officials. A 24-hour “hotline” has been set up to allow McDonald's staff to contact the embassy.

“American citizens traveling in Austria who find themselves in distress and without a way to contact the US Embassy can enter – as of Wednesday, May 15, 2019 – any McDonald's in Austria, and staff will assist them in making contact with the US Embassy for consular services,” the embassy said in an announcement on its Facebook page.

A spokesman for the embassy confirmed the arrangement was genuine but declined to comment further.

The initiative is believed to be be the brainchild of Trevor Traina, an entrepreneur who was appointed US ambassador to Austria by Donald Trump last year.