Addressing the ongoing turmoil in Ukraine and Gaza, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that diplomacy remains the best option for resolving the conflicts in both regions, at a joint press conference with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammare on Wednesday , following his contentious visit to Moscow where he met Russian President Vladimir Putin.
While India has traditionally maintained close ties with Russia, the government has signaled that it is ready to step up its engagement in resolving the conflict, which is now in its second year.
In a joint statement, India and Russia affirmed their ongoing collaboration on military technologies. Due to Western sanctions making Russian oil cheaper, India has become a major buyer, alongside its purchases of Russian defense equipment. Regarding the Ukraine war, New Delhi has refrained from directly criticizing Moscow, instead advocating for dialogue among all parties involved.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined his strong stance against the loss of innocent lives in both Ukraine and Gaza, insisting that such a tragedy is simply unacceptable. “The death of innocent civilians, whether in Ukraine or Gaza or anywhere else, is entirely unacceptable,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of peaceful negotiations, urging all parties involved to strive towards finding a diplomatic solution that prioritizes human life and stability.
He drew upon the lessons of history, reminding us of the 19th century Vienna Congress which managed to bring an end to the Napoleonic wars and established a framework of stability and cooperation among the European nations. He invoked this example as a demonstration that even the most intractable conflicts can be resolved through determined, patient diplomacy and compromise, as opposed to destructive warfare. With this reference, Modi urged modern leaders to draw inspiration from the past and pursue diplomatic solutions to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
India’s position on Ukraine while simultaneously conveying the concerns of Europe to its counterpart. India participated in the Summit on Peace in Ukraine last month, albeit at a lower level than other countries as Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose not to attend personally.
On the other hand, Austria, which maintains its military neutrality and is not part of NATO, has taken the role of a potential mediator in the Ukraine conflict.Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer stated that their conversation today focused on even greater commitment to peace efforts, and he also added that Austria is prepared to serve as a location for any future peace negotiations involving Ukraine.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer held in-depth discussions on global conflicts, with a special focus on the situation in Ukraine. Modi emphasized the shared commitment of India and Austria to support efforts that would quickly reestablish peace and stability in Ukraine. Nehammer echoed this sentiment, stressing that both nations had a shared objective to bring about a just and enduring peace that adhered to the principles of the UN Charter. Nehammer stated that he found it crucial to appreciate.
PM Modi first to visit Austria after 41 years
It is noteworthy that this visit marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has been to Austria in 41 years, with the last visit being by Indira Gandhi in 1983.
Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg welcomed Modi at the airport. Modi the engaged with with the members of the Indian diaspora and was hosted by the Austrain Chancellor.
PM Modi also expressed that this was his first visit to Austria and he was delighted by the enthusiasm he observed. He noted that it had been 41 years since an Indian Prime Minister visited Austria, marking the end of a long wait and highlighting the historic nature of the occasion during his address at a community event in Vienna.
