Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Monday for a two-nation tour to Russia and Austria, marking his first visit to Russia in nearly five years. During his two-day visit to Moscow, PM Modi will talk with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a range of issues, before heading to Austria on July 9 and 10 for further bilateral engagements. Ahead of his departure, PM Modi emphasized the significance of these visits in bolstering India’s relationships with both nations. “Our time-tested friendships with Russia and Austria provide a strong foundation for deepening cooperation in various fields,” he stated. “I am eager to engage with the Indian communities in these countries and explore new opportunities for collaboration.“
In Moscow, PM Modi will be hosted by President Putin, who has arranged a private dinner on the day of the Prime Minister’s arrival. The following day, PM Modi’s schedule includes interaction with the Indian diaspora, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Kremlin, and visiting the Rosatom pavilion at an exhibition venue. “Our special and privileged strategic partnership with Russia has significantly progressed over the past decade, encompassing areas like energy, security, trade, investment, health, education, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges,” PM Modi remarked. “I am eager to review all aspects of our bilateral cooperation with my friend President Vladimir Putin and exchange views on various regional and global issues. We aim to contribute to a peaceful and stable region.“
The visit to Russia is particularly notable as it is PM Modi’s first since Russia’s military offensive in Ukraine began in February 2022. His last visit to Russia was in 2019 when he attended an economic forum in Vladivostok. The Kremlin has indicated that deepening trade and economic cooperation will be a key theme in the discussions between PM Modi and President Putin. Following his engagements in Russia, PM Modi will travel to Austria, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 41 years, since Indira Gandhi’s visit in 1983. The Prime Minister will meet Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehammer to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Austria.
“This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over 40 years. I look forward to my discussions to elevate our partnership to new heights in areas of innovation, technology, and sustainable development,” PM Modi said. “Together with the Austrian Chancellor, I will explore mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities in discussions with business leaders from both countries. I am also eager to interact with the Indian community in Austria, who are well-regarded for their professionalism and conduct.” PM Modi’s visit to Austria underscores the shared ideals of democracy and pluralism between the two countries. He expressed confidence that these engagements would pave the way for enhanced cooperation and stronger ties with Russia and Austria. PM Modi’s two-nation tour is poised to reinforce India’s diplomatic relationships and expand collaborative efforts in various sectors, reflecting the strategic importance of these visits on the global stage.