Recently, the Prime Minister of India visited Vienna, Austria.

Significance of the PM Visit to Austria

• Narendra Modi’s visit to Vienna is the first by an Indian Prime Minister since 1983, when Indira Gandhi traveled to Austria.
• This visit highlights Austria’s non-NATO status amidst tensions with Russia and Western allies.
• Messages Conveyed: During his visit, Modi emphasized India’s concern over civilian casualties in conflicts, including recent events in Ukraine.
  • He reiterated that war cannot solve problems and underscored the need for peace talks.

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Key Outcomes of PM Visit to Austria

• Strengthening Bilateral Relations: The bilateral relation between Austria and India was established in 1949.
  • Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Austria and his discussion with Karl Nehammer on various matters such as war and its consequences strengthened the bond between two countries again. 
• Economic and Technological Collaboration: The discussion emphasised on “future-oriented bilateral sustainable economic and technology partnership” between India and Austria. 
  • It could open new doors for advancement of technology in both the countries.
• Stance on Russia-Ukraine war: Two countries have maintained a balanced position on the Russia-Ukraine war.
• Austria and India both support EU sanctions against Russia. At the same time, continue to engage in commercial ties with Russia, including gas imports.

Austria’s Neutrality and Historical Background

• During World War II, Vienna was under Nazi occupation. 
• It was later divided into four sectors by the US, UK, France, and Soviet Union.
• The Allies occupied Austria for a decade after the war ended.

About Austria

• Austria is strategically located between Western Europe and the Eastern bloc.
• Vienna is the capital of Austria. 
• It gained independence in 1955 through the Austrian State Treaty.
• The treaty, ratified by four occupying powers, mandated Austria’s neutrality, akin to Switzerland’s stance.
• The country’s constitution prohibits joining military alliances or hosting foreign military bases.

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India’s Role in Austria’s Independence

• Austrian Appeal for Sovereignty: In 1952-53, Austria sought Jawaharlal Nehru’s assistance to achieve independence from Allied occupation.
• Support at the UN: India was one of the few nations supporting Austria’s plea at the UN in 1952, advocating an end to Allied occupation and restoration of sovereignty.
• Nehru’s Diplomatic Influence: Nehru’s respected stature among Western nations and the Soviets made him a pivotal figure in Austria’s negotiations for independence.

India-Austria Relations: Historical Highlights

• India’s Cultural Relation with Austria: Indo-austrian culture dates back to the 16th century when Balthasar Springer travelled from Tyro to India in 1505 with the third Portuguese fleet.
• Indology in Austria: This tradition started between 1825-1920. 
• It is a period known for its distinguished philologists and archaeologists.
• Vienna was established as a centre for indology.
• The Chair for Indology became an independent Department with new premises after 1955. 
• Today, it is known as the Institute for South Asian, Tibetan and Buddhist Studies at the University of Vienna.
• Sanskrit teaching: In 1845, Sanskrit teaching started at at Vienna University 
• Cultural Performances: Indian artists and Austrian artists have performed in each other’s countries. For example: Recent, Indian artists are: 
  • Kuchipudi dancers “Raja and Radha Reddy”, 
  • Martial arts performers – Monish Nayak 
  • Kathak Dance Group, Pt. Bholanath Mishra 
  • Indian vocal music, 
  • Rajasthani folk dance group.
• India’s Relation with Austria in Space Sector: Austria’s first two satellites were launched by India’s PSLV-C20 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
• • TUGSAT-1/BRITE.
  • UniBRITE.

Significance of Austria for India’s Economy

• Strong potential for economic partnership: Indian Prime Minister Modi and Austrian Chancellor Nehammer discussed a “future-oriented bilateral sustainable economic and technology partnership.” 
  • This suggests that Austria sees India as a valuable partner for collaboration in various sectors like infrastructure, renewable energy, e-commerce, and fintech.
• Opportunities for Indian businesses: A potential economic partnership with Austria could open doors for Indian businesses in areas like e-commerce, fintech, and enterprise technology.
• • These are growing sectors in India, and Austria’s expertise could be valuable for Indian companies looking to expand or improve their offerings.

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Conclusion

Modi’s visit to Austria strengthens bilateral ties, fosters economic and technological collaboration, and underscores shared balanced stances on global issues, notably the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

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