Vienna: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Austria from July 9-10, 2024, at the invitation of Chancellor Karl Nehammer. This historic visit marked the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria in 41 years and coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. India and Austria issued a joint statement outlining a plan to significantly upgrade their bilateral partnership. The two nations, united by shared values and historical ties, aim to collaborate on a range of issues including clean energy, green technologies, and economic development.
The leaders emphasized the freedom, and international peace and security, and reiterated their commitment to deepening bilateral, regional, and international cooperation. They recognized the potential for a significant upgrade in their bilateral partnership and agreed to adopt a strategic approach to achieve this goal.
The joint statement highlighted the importance of democratic countries working together to contribute to international and regional peace and prosperity. The leaders exchanged assessments of recent developments in Europe and West Asia/Middle East, and supported collective efforts for a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine. They condemned terrorism in all its forms and emphasized the need for concerted action against terrorists.
Key takeaways from the Joint Statement:
- Strengthened Political and Security Cooperation: Both nations emphasized their commitment to working together to promote international peace, stability, and a rules-based world order.
- Focus on a Sustainable Economic Partnership: The leaders pledged to establish a future-oriented economic and technology partnership, with cooperation in areas like renewable energy, infrastructure, and smart cities.
- Collaboration on Clean Technologies: Recognizing the urgency of climate action, India and Austria identified clean transportation, water management, and renewable hydrogen as key areas for collaboration.
- Enhanced People-to-people Ties: The leaders acknowledged the growing cultural exchange and welcomed efforts to expand cooperation in tourism.
- Reinforced Multilateral Cooperation: Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to working together in multilateral forums like the United Nations.
The leaders identified areas for cooperation, including trade, investment, innovation, research and development in green and digital technologies, environmental technologies, renewable energy, skill development, and cultural exchanges. They encouraged business representatives to explore new opportunities and welcomed initiatives to link innovation and start-up ecosystems.
The joint statement reaffirmed the commitment to multilateralism and the principles of the United Nations Charter, and agreed to work together to achieve comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, including its Security Council. The visit marks a turning point in India-Austria relations, paving the way for a more comprehensive strategic partnership.
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