Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer in Vienna and discussed various dimensions of the bilateral relations on Wednesday. These include trade and investment, Science and Technology, green energy, AI, start-ups, environment and climate change, cultural cooperation and people to people ties. The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. In a press statement after the meeting, Mr Modi said, they discussed the biggest challenges humanity is facing right now, including climate change and terrorism. He said, he has invited Austria, to join India’s initiatives including International Solar Alliance, Collision for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and Bio-fuel Alliance.
The Prime Minister said, the shared belief in values such as democracy and rule of law are the strong foundations of India-Austria relations. He said, the relations are strengthened by mutual trust and shared interests. Mr Modi said, he and Chancellor Nehmer had a very productive conversation today and they have identified new possibilities to further strengthen mutual cooperation. Mr Modi said, they have decided that the relationship will be given a strategic direction.
Mr Modi said, they also discussed in detail all the ongoing conflicts in the world, including situation in Ukraine and West Asia. The Prime Minister retreated that this is not the time for war.
During the meeting the two leaders also stressed on the need for reform in the United Nations and other international organizations to make them contemporary and effective.
Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammar said, it is impressive to look at India’s success when it comes to infrastructure, digitalisation in society and developing infrastructure at an enormous pace.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial reception in Vienna. He reached Vienna from Moscow on the second leg of his two-nation visit yesterday. He was given a warm welcome from members of the Indian community upon his arrival.
Akashvani correspondent reports that it is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria in 41 years. During the visit, Mr Modi will call on Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen. Mr Modi will also interact with members of the Indian community in Vienna.
