Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a significant two-nation visit, marking important engagements in Russia and Austria. The visit is scheduled from July 8 to July 10, 2024, and will encompass crucial discussions and meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
PM Modi’s Visit to Russia
The Prime Minister will arrive in Moscow on July 8 for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit. This summit aims to review the multifaceted ties between the two nations, focusing on areas such as defence, trade, and cultural exchanges.
Schedule in Russia
July 8: PM Modi is expected to reach Moscow late in the afternoon. He will attend a private dinner hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin, setting the stage for more detailed discussions the following day.
July 9: The day will begin with a meeting with the Indian community in Russia, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Kremlin. PM Modi will also visit an exhibition venue in Moscow and engage in a one-on-one talk with President Putin.
Key Agendas
At the special briefing in New Delhi on Friday, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra highlighted that discussions will encompass regional and global security issues, trade, and other significant topics. The summit will also provide an opportunity to delve into the bilateral ties between India and Russia, including defence cooperation, investment, education, and cultural exchanges. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is expected to be a point of discussion, reflecting the broader regional and global interests of both nations.
Connectivity and Transport
A critical area of focus will be the International North-South Transport Corridor, especially in light of recent developments involving the Chabahar Port agreement between India and Iran. Enhanced connectivity, including the proposed eastern corridor between Chennai and Vladivostok, is anticipated to be a significant outcome of this visit.
Previous Interactions
The last meeting between PM Modi and President Putin was in September 2022 during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Uzbekistan. The defence cooperation between India and Russia continues to be robust, guided by the IRIGC-M&MTC mechanism, and includes regular bilateral and multilateral military exercises.
PM Modi’s Visit to Austria
Following his trip to Russia, PM Modi will travel to Austria from July 9 to 10. This visit is historic as it marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria in 41 years.
Schedule in Austria
July 9: Upon arrival, PM Modi will call on Austria’s President, Alexander Van der Bellen. This will be followed by talks with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer. Both leaders will address business leaders from India and Austria, highlighting the potential for increased economic cooperation. The day will conclude with PM Modi’s interaction with the Indian diaspora in Vienna.
Strengthening Ties
The visit aims to build on the existing engagements between the two countries. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in interactions, including the launch of the India-Austria Startup Bridge in February 2024. This initiative underscores the focus on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship between the two nations.
Historical and Cultural Relations
India and Austria share a rich history of cultural exchanges dating back to the 16th century. The teaching of Sanskrit at Vienna University began in 1845, and Rabindranath Tagore’s visits to Vienna in the 1920s played a significant role in enhancing cultural and intellectual ties.
Economic Ties
In 2023, bilateral trade between India and Austria amounted to USD 2.93 billion. India’s key exports to Austria include electronic goods, apparel, textiles, footwear, and vehicles, while imports from Austria primarily consist of machinery, mechanical appliances, and iron and steel products. Austria’s unique position as an EU member that is not part of NATO and its policy of neutrality further adds an interesting dimension to the bilateral relations.
This two-nation tour signifies India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its global footprint and engage with key international partners on a wide range of issues.