PM Modi Envisions India's Future at Vienna Community Event

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's cultural ties with Austria, global impact, and future ambitions at a community event in Vienna. He stressed India's commitment to peace, the importance of public involvement in international relations, and his vision for India to become a top-three economy by 2047.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a community event in Vienna on Wednesday, emphasizing the historical and cultural ties between India and Austria. Highlighting the benefits of this rich history, Modi remarked, "Just like India, Austria's history and culture have been very old and grand. This has benefitted both countries in terms of cultural exchange and trade."

Modi noted the global fascination with India's thoughts and actions, underscoring the country's longstanding tradition of sharing knowledge and promoting peace. "Across the world, a lot of discussion is going on over India...What is India thinking today, what is India doing - it is essential to build a better-informed world regarding this...We have shared knowledge & expertise with the world for thousands of years," he said. Modi proudly added that India has always advocated peace, evidenced by its promotion of 'Buddha' over 'yuddh' (war).

Expressing pride in India's global role as 'Vishwa Bandhu' (world partner), Modi highlighted India's commitment to continue this role into the 21st century. "Even in the 21st century, India is going to strengthen this role it has. When the world views India as 'Vishwa bandhu' today, it is a matter of pride for us," he stated. He emphasized the necessity of public participation in fostering international relations, saying, "I have always been of the opinion that the relations between two countries are formed not just by governments. Public participation is essential to strengthen relationships."

Modi also shared his vision for India's future, aiming for it to become one of the top three global economies by 2047, when India will celebrate its 100th independence anniversary. "Today India is growing at the rate of 8 percent. With this speed, we will reach the top 3 economies of the world. Our Mission is 2047...The country would celebrate 100 years of independence, but that would be the century of Viksit Bharat," Modi proclaimed. Enthusiastic members of the Indian diaspora chanted 'Vande Mataram' and 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' following his speech.

(With inputs from agencies.)