PM Modi is in Austria on a two-day visit (July 9 & 10), the first by an Indian prime minister in over four decades. He reached Vienna from Moscow on Tuesday. Modi’s visit also comes in the backdrop of New Delhi and Vienna celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations.
When he reached Vienna, he was welcomed by Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer. Modi thanked him for a “warm welcome”. According to reports, the Chancellor said this visit—the first by an Indian PM in more than 40 years—was a special honour, the last being that by Indira Gandhi in 1983.
He added that they would have the chance to discuss strengthening the two nations’ bilateral relationship and working together on various geopolitical challenges. PM Modi said it was an honour to visit Austria on this historic occasion and that he looked forward to their talks on deepening ties between the two countries and exploring new areas of cooperation. Later, Modi interacted with members of the Indian community and attended a private event hosted by Nehammer.
On Sunday, before his trip to Austria, Modi had emphasised that the shared values of democracy, freedom and the rule of law were the foundations on which the two nations would strengthen their partnership. Modi is set to meet the President of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, and hold discussions with Nehammer on Wednesday (July 10). What’s on Modi’s agenda during this trip? Who will he meet and why is his visit to Austria important? STRENGTHENING THE PA.
