Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to make a historic visit to Austria on July 9 and 10, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria in 41 years. This visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between India and Austria. PM Modi expressed his anticipation for strengthening ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation between the two nations, emphasizing shared values such as democracy, freedom, and the rule of law as the foundation for a closer partnership.
Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer welcomed PM Modi's visit, describing it as a significant milestone and an opportunity to address various geopolitical challenges. During his visit, PM Modi will meet Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and hold talks with Chancellor Nehammer. They will also address business leaders from both countries, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation.
Before visiting Austria, PM Modi will travel to Moscow on July 8 and 9 to attend the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. This visit marks PM Modi's first visit to Russia in nearly five years. During the summit, the leaders will review the multifaceted relations between India and Russia and exchange views on contemporary regional and global issues of mutual interest.
India's Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the significance of the annual summit, which represents the highest institutional dialogue mechanism in the strategic partnership between India and Russia. The last annual summit was held in December 2021 in Delhi.Â
India's Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, emphasized the importance of this visit, given the geopolitical developments and the expansion of bilateral relations. He mentioned that the leaders would discuss trade, energy resources, defense cooperation, connectivity, and global issues, including the Ukraine war.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia is expecting a "very important and full-fledged visit" by PM Modi, highlighting the strategic partnership level of India-Russia relations. PM Modi's program in Moscow will be extensive, including informal talks with President Putin, delegation-level discussions, and interactions with the Indian community in Russia.
