Ukraine: After Russia, PM Modi discusses the issue with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer
Virendra Pandit
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed the Russian war in Ukraine and India-Austria strategic ties with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer during his maiden visit to the European country.
At a joint press conference, PM Modi, who reached Vienna on Tuesday after meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, reiterated that war has no place in the world.
He also discussed strengthening ties with Vienna in infrastructure development, renewable energy, hydrogen, water and waste management and artificial intelligence, the media reported.
“I am happy that during the beginning of my third term itself, I got the opportunity to visit Austria. This trip of mine is historic and special. After 41 years, an Indian PM has visited Austria…today, a significant discussion took place between Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer and me.
“We discussed new possibilities to strengthen our ties further. We have decided to give these ties a strategic direction…in sectors like infrastructure development, renewable energy, hydrogen, water and waste management, artificial intelligence…we work towards linking each other’s capabilities,” PM Modi said.
He said the Ukraine war and the situation in West Asia were among the topics discussed during his meeting with the Austrian leader.
“I have told you earlier also, this is not the time for war. We won’t be able to find solutions to problems through any war. Wherever it is, killing of innocent people is unacceptable. India and Austria emphasize dialogue and diplomacy, and for that, we are together ready to give any support required,” he added.
PM Modi said the shared beliefs in values such as democracy and the rule of law are strong foundations of India and Austria’s relations. Both the countries strongly condemn terrorism.
“We discussed the biggest challenges humanity is facing right now, including climate change and terrorism. On climate, we are inviting Austria to join our initiatives like international solar alliance, coalition for disaster resilient infrastructure and bio-fuel alliance,” he added.
Chancellor Nehammer acknowledged India’s unique position in the Global South.
“For me, it was an important signal that India, as a founding member of the BRICS, participated in the Swiss Peace Summit…Today, we have been talking about an even stronger commitment and about the possibilities of reviving the peace process. PM Modi and I discussed the unique position of India in the Global South.
“India is an important, influential and credit-worthy country. It is the biggest democracy in the world. Therefore, India’s role, especially for Austria, is more than important when it comes to the peace process and future peace summits,” he said.
Chancellor Nehammer said the changing geopolitical situation unites India and Austria.
“Last night and this morning, we had very intensive talks about the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. For me, as the Federal Chancellor of Austria, it is particularly important to get to know India’s assessment and to understand it and familiarise India with European concerns and worries.
“Moreover, the conflict in the Middle East was a major topic. We also referred to the positive aspects of our cooperation,” he added.
