- Modi’s visit came at a time when the two countries are celebrating their 75 years of diplomatic ties.
- India is one of Austria’s important trading partners outside the EU, with a trade value of USD 2.93 billion, which proves the enormous potential for further growth.
- By securing foreign investments and technological partnerships, the visit promises to bring tangible benefits to India’s economy, creating jobs and fostering innovation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Austria on July 9, 2024, marks a significant moment in India’s foreign policy, underscoring the nation’s commitment to strengthening its ties with Europe. The visit is a bilateral engagement and a strategic manoeuvre in India’s broader geopolitical agenda. As India continues to rise as a global power, Modi’s outreach to Austria exemplifies a nuanced and forward-thinking approach to diplomacy.
India and Austria have shared a longstanding relationship, characterized by diplomatic, cultural, and economic exchanges that have evolved significantly since the early 20th century. Diplomatic relations were formally established in 1949, since then, the two nations have nurtured a relationship built on mutual respect and cooperation. Austria is also one of the countries that gave support to the idea of non-alignment during the days of the Cold War. The historical ties with Austria influence India’s broader foreign policy, particularly its approach to Europe. Austria, as a member of the European Union (EU), serves as a gateway for India to engage with the broader European community.
Modi’s visit came at a time when the two countries are celebrating their 75 years of diplomatic ties. Before this, the visit was 41 years back, when Former PM Indira Gandhi visited Austria in 1983. On the first day, Austrian artists welcomed PM Modi with a rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ which brought citizens of both countries closer and won millions of hearts on the internet. PM Modi met Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehammer.
One of the key goals of the visit was to deepen economic relations. In this context, PM Modi and the Austrian Chancellor welcomed the convening of the first-ever high-level “Bilateral Business Forum” with the participation of CEOs of various companies. Both the leaders also welcomed the initiative to link the innovation and startup ecosystem through frameworks such as Austria’s Global Incubator Network and the Start-up India initiative. India is now considered one of Austria’s most important trading partners outside the European Union, with a trade value of USD 2.93 billion, which proves the enormous potential for further growth, especially after the new EU Commission which wants to negotiate a free trade agreement with India.
Interacting with the diaspora has always been an integral part of Modi’s foreign visit. Describing this visit as ‘meaningful’ he talked about how shared values like ‘liberty, equality, pluralism, respect for rule of law’ brought these two countries together that are geographically on two different ends. He also mentioned that India for thousands of years has been sharing knowledge and wisdom with the world, India has given the world “Buddha” and not “Yuddha”(War), it came at a time when the world is witnessing serious conflicts between countries whether it Ukraine-Russia war or “Israel-Palestine’ conflict. Recalling the recently concluded Lok Sabha election, he expressed his admiration for India’s election machinery and its vibrant democracy. At the same time, he mentioned the deep intellectual interest in Indian philosophy, languages, values, and thoughts that have existed for centuries in Austria, like Sanskrit was taught at Vienna’s University around 200 years ago.
The visit equivalently stressed the issue of climate change, where two countries reiterated their commitments to achieving climate neutrality by 2050, the Austrian government’s aim to achieve climate neutrality by 2040, and the Indian government’s commitment to achieve climate neutrality by 2070.
Today’s world puts great importance on ‘skill development’ which is also being recognised by the two leaders as they welcomed the operationalisation of the “Bilateral Migration and Mobility” agreement which provides an institutional framework to facilitate the exchange of skills, knowledge while at the same time combating irregular migration. People-to-people connection is one of the pillars of any country’s foreign policy, in this meeting two leaders appreciated the long tradition of cultural exchanges, significantly the role of Austrian Indologists and leading Indian cultural personalities who engaged with Austria. ‘Yoga’ and ‘Ayurveda’ are the hallmarks of India’s civilisational identities making their way into the lives of Austrian people.
Domestically, PM Modi’s visit is a testament to his administration’s proactive foreign policy. It reflects a clear understanding of the interconnectedness of globalisation that resonates with the idea of “Vishwa Bandhu” and national interests. By securing foreign investments and technological partnerships, the visit promises to bring tangible benefits to India’s economy, creating jobs and fostering innovation. The focus on clean energy and digital innovation also aligns with India’s developmental priorities, ensuring that the country remains on a sustainable growth trajectory.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Austria is more than a diplomatic engagement; it is a strategic move that reflects the multifaceted and dynamic nature of India’s foreign policy. The visit has laid the foundation for a stronger economic partnership, enhanced strategic security cooperation, and deeper cultural and educational exchanges. As India continues to rise on the global stage, such engagements are crucial for building resilient and diversified alliances.
The decisions taken during this visit will have long-lasting implications. They signify a commitment to proactive diplomacy, strategic autonomy, and technological advancement. Modi’s visit to Austria is a testament to India’s evolving role in the world – a role characterised by a balance of hard and soft power, strategic partnerships, and a relentless pursuit of national interests. This visit not only strengthens bilateral ties with Austria but also reinforces India’s position as a formidable and independent actor in global geopolitics.
(Pritam is pursuing a Master’s in Politics and International Relations at Pondicherry University. His Area of interest includes India’s Foreign Policy, Defence and Security Studies, Intelligence and Strategic Warfare. Views expressed are the author’s own)
Parag Gilada 
Avinash Krishna 
Prajwal K M