PM Modi Concludes Historic Russia-Austria Visit with Significant Diplomatic Advancements

Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to New Delhi following productive visits to Russia and Austria. Highlighting strengthened bilateral relations, PM Modi thanked Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer for the warm reception. This visit marked a historic milestone, with key meetings and agreements fostering economic ties and cultural exchanges.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to New Delhi on Thursday morning after concluding his two-nation tour of Russia and Austria. During his visit, PM Modi shared a post on X, expressing gratitude to Austria's Chancellor, government, and people for their warm welcome and hospitality.

PM Modi described the visit as 'historic' and 'immensely productive.' He noted that new vigour has been added to the friendship between India and Austria. The Prime Minister also attended diverse programmes in Vienna, expressing his thanks to Chancellor Karl Nehammer, the Austrian government, and the people for their hospitality and affection.

On Wednesday, PM Modi addressed a community event in Vienna, marking 75 years of Indo-Austrian friendship. The enthusiastic welcome he received highlighted the strong bond between India and its diaspora. This visit was historic, as it marked the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria in 41 years.

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer appreciated the teams behind the scenes for their efforts in organizing PM Modi's successful state visit. He extended his gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Army, the police, protocol officers, and others for their professional planning, organization, and execution.

Both leaders discussed the tradition of cultural exchanges, noting Austrians' growing interest in yoga and Ayurveda. They also emphasized the importance of skill development and the mobility of skilled personnel, supported by the bilateral Migration and Mobility Agreement aimed at facilitating such exchanges and combating irregular migration.

PM Modi's visit included significant meetings with Austrian leaders, including Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Nehammer, to bolster bilateral cooperation and explore new avenues for collaboration.

Prime Minister Modi met business leaders from both countries, discussing potential opportunities to enhance commercial and trade linkages. The meetings underscored mutual confidence in boosting economic ties between India and Austria.

PM Modi arrived in Vienna on June 9 evening for a day-long state visit after a two-day official visit to Moscow, where he met Russian President Vladimir Putin.

(With inputs from agencies.)