Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on the President of the Republic of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, in Vienna on Wednesday.

This significant meeting comes as part of PM Modi’s day-long state visit to Austria, the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria in over four decades.

The visit holds particular importance as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Austria. This historic visit of PM Modi to Austria has reinforced the commitment to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Austria, emphasising core democratic values and the rule of law as shared foundations.

PM Modi expressed his delight, saying, “Had an excellent meeting with Chancellor Karl Nehammer.” This visit to Austria is very special because it is after several decades that an Indian Prime Minister is visiting this wonderful country. It is also the time when we are marking 75 years of the India-Austria friendship.

During his stay, PM Modi engaged in talks with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer, where a wide range of bilateral issues were discussed. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties between their nations.

The visit also saw PM Modi and Chancellor Nehammer participating in the India-Austria Business Meeting, which brought together approximately 40 businesses from both countries.

In addition to economic discussions, the leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Following their delegation-level talks, PM Modi and Chancellor Nehammer addressed a joint press statement, further cementing the diplomatic bonds between the two nations.

This historic visit by Prime Minister Modi, coming 41 years after Indira Gandhi’s trip to Austria in 1983, is expected to give a significant boost to India-Austria relations.

(Inputs from ANI)