On April 16, in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in bilateral discussions with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker at the iconic Hyderabad House. The talks centered on bolstering collaboration in trade, investment, green technology, and various critical sectors.

Earlier that day, Chancellor Stocker paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared on social media, stating, "Honoring 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 Delhi on Wednesday for his inaugural official visit to India, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations across essential areas including trade, investment, and emerging technologies.

Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Chancellor Stocker, expressing optimism that his upcoming discussions with Prime Minister Modi would lead to new opportunities for enhanced cooperation between the two countries.

"It was a pleasure to meet Federal Chancellor Dr. Christian Stocker of Austria as he embarks on his first official visit to India. I am confident that his meetings with PM Modi will pave the way for increased collaboration across multiple domains," Jaishankar posted on social media.

During the visit, Stocker acknowledged India's economic growth, highlighting its significant investments in infrastructure and technology, stating that India is currently the European Union's (EU) "most significant trading partner" in South Asia.

"India's economy is expanding at approximately seven percent annually, with substantial investments in infrastructure and technology, making it the EU's key trading partner in South Asia. For Austria, a small yet highly innovative export nation, this presents a remarkable opportunity we aim to exploit," Stocker tweeted after arriving.

He emphasized the importance of stable partnerships during uncertain global times, stating, "This is why I will be in New Delhi for the next three days: to establish concrete frameworks so Austrian companies can benefit from this growth—through new collaborations, strengthened partnerships, and improved access to this dynamic market."

This visit marks Stocker's first journey to India and his maiden official visit to Asia since taking office in 2025.

Accompanied by a high-ranking delegation of senior ministers, government officials, and business leaders, Stocker’s visit underscores a strong economic focus. Both nations are expected to delve into opportunities for enhanced collaboration in advanced manufacturing, digital innovation, and renewable energy.

The visit occurs against a backdrop of increasing economic engagement between Austria and India. Conversations are also anticipated to cover regional and global issues of mutual concern, alongside cooperation in multilateral forums.

India and Austria share a rich history of friendly relations grounded in mutual democratic values. This visit is a continuation of the momentum established by PM Modi's 2024 trip to Austria and is expected to further solidify the India–Austria partnership, opening pathways for strategic and economic collaboration.