PM Modi’s Visit to Austria

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic visit to Austria, several key areas of bilateral cooperation were highlighted.

Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Visit to Austria

Shared Values and Goals

• Emphasis on Democracy and Freedom: Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to democratic values, international peace, and a rules-based international order. This underpins their mutual respect for sovereignty and democratic principles.

Economic and Technological Cooperation

• Sustainable Economic Growth: Focus was placed on fostering sustainable economic development and innovation.
• Digital Infrastructure: Collaboration in advancing digital technologies and infrastructure was emphasized.
• Business and Start-ups: Encouragement was given to increase business-to-business interactions and foster start-up collaborations between the two countries.

Political and Security Cooperation

• Indo-Pacific Region: Both countries stressed the importance of maintaining a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
• Counter-Terrorism: A mutual commitment was made towards combating terrorism and adhering to international law.
• Ukraine Conflict: Austria supported a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, aligning with India's stance on international conflict resolution.

Multilateral Cooperation

• Commitment to Multilateralism: Both nations reaffirmed their support for a rules-based multilateral order and advocated for reforms in the United Nations.
• UN Security Council: They pledged mutual support for each other's candidacies for non-permanent seats on the UN Security Council, aiming to strengthen their influence in global governance.

Cultural and People-to-People Ties

• Cultural Exchanges: Promotion of cultural ties, tourism, and academic exchanges was a focal point.
• Yoga and Ayurveda: The significance of Indian cultural practices, such as yoga and Ayurveda, was recognized and promoted in Austria.

Climate and Sustainability

• Climate Neutrality: Both nations agreed on joint efforts towards achieving climate neutrality.
• Green Hydrogen Technologies: There was a focus on developing and investing in green hydrogen technologies as part of their climate action strategies.
• Environmental Technologies: Emphasis was placed on collaboration in environmental (green) technologies to combat climate change.

India-Austria Bilateral Relationship

Overview

India and Austria have cultivated a longstanding and amicable bilateral relationship characterized by mutual respect and cooperation. The partnership, built on shared democratic values and a commitment to enhancing economic, cultural, and political ties, spans several decades.

Political Relations

• Diplomatic Ties: Established in 1949, the diplomatic relationship between India and Austria has been strengthened through high-level visits, bilateral agreements, and active participation in international forums.
• Multilateral Cooperation: Both countries collaborate on various global platforms, including the United Nations, where they address key issues such as climate change, sustainable development, and global peace.

Economic and Trade Relations

• Trade Volume:
• 2021 Data: According to Statistik Austria, the bilateral trade was balanced. Indian exports to Austria amounted to USD 1.29 billion, while imports from Austria were USD 1.18 billion.
• Indian Exports to Austria: Includes electronic goods, apparel, textiles, footwear, rubber articles, vehicles and railway parts, electrical machinery, and mechanical appliances.
• Indian Imports from Austria: Includes machinery, mechanical appliances, railway parts, iron, and steel.
• Investment:
• Austrian Investments in India: Austrian companies have invested in sectors such as engineering, renewable energy, and infrastructure.
• Indian Investments in Austria: Indian firms are exploring opportunities in Austria, particularly in IT and manufacturing.

Cultural and Educational Exchanges

• Cultural Programs:
• Festival of India: Initiatives such as the Festival of India in Austria and Austrian cultural events in India promote mutual understanding and cultural exchange.
• Educational Cooperation:
• Indian Students: Many Indian students pursue higher education in Austria, benefiting from scholarships and exchange programs.
• Academic Collaborations: There is a growing trend of academic collaborations between universities in both countries.
• Indian Community: Approximately 31,000 Indians reside in Austria, with a significant number originating from Kerala and Punjab.

Recent Developments

The recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Austria has further strengthened the bilateral relationship. This visit highlighted the robust and expanding partnership between the two nations, with a strategic focus on advancing cooperation across various sectors, including economic, technological, cultural, and environmental domains