New Delhi, April 16 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism on Thursday that the collaboration between India and Austria will become increasingly innovation-focused and future-ready.

This statement followed his meeting with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, where they examined avenues to enhance cooperation in sectors such as innovation, infrastructure, and sustainability.

PM Modi remarked that both countries are eager to infuse new vigor into their trade and investment relationships.

“I had very fruitful discussions with Chancellor Stocker of Austria. We in India are honored that he chose our country as his first destination outside of Europe after taking office. This underscores his dedication to strengthening India-Austria ties. Notably, this marks the first visit by an Austrian Chancellor in the last forty years. Furthermore, it coincides with the historic India-EU Free Trade Agreement, heralding a new era in India-EU relations,” PM Modi stated on X.

“Our dialogue today focused on enhancing cooperation in areas including innovation, infrastructure, and sustainability. We are determined to revitalize our trade and investment links. Fields like defense, semiconductors, emerging technologies, and startups hold tremendous potential for deeper collaboration. I am confident that the India-Austria partnership will evolve to be even more innovation-centric and future-ready,” he elaborated.

Chancellor Stocker expressed gratitude to PM Modi for his warm invitation and hospitality, stating that his visit to New Delhi signifies a new phase in the India-Austria friendship.

In a post on X, Stocker remarked: “Thank you, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, for the invitation and your gracious hospitality. It is a tremendous honor to be in New Delhi as the first Austrian Chancellor to visit India in over forty years. This visit marks a new chapter in a friendship that has flourished for over 75 years. In these times of rising geopolitical uncertainties, reliable partners connected through shared values are invaluable.”

Earlier in the day, Chancellor Stocker paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted on X, “Remembering Bapu and his principles. Federal Chancellor Dr. Christian Stocker of Austria laid a wreath at Rajghat, reflecting on Gandhiji’s lasting message of peace, non-violence, and global harmony.”

Stocker arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday for his inaugural official visit to India since taking office, aimed at fortifying bilateral relations across essential sectors, including trade, investment, and emerging technologies.

Earlier on Wednesday, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar met with the Austrian Chancellor, expressing confidence that their discussions would pave the way for enhanced cooperation between the two nations.