External Affairs Minister Jaishankar & Austrian Foreign Minister Schallenberg discuss Gaza, Ukraine
| 2024-01-09
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar with Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg in Vienna on January 2, 2023.
The diplomatic bond between India and Austria, forged in 1949, has evolved into a comprehensive and dynamic partnership
India and Austria discussed the Israel-Gaza conflict and the situation in Ukraine during a conversation between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg on Monday (January 8, 2024). Their conversation also covered bilateral issues.
In a social media post, EAM Jaishankar highlighted his cordial relationship with Foreign Minister Schallenberg, stating, “Good to speak to my dear friend FM @a_schallenberg of Austria after the New Year. Recall last year's visit to Vienna. Exchanged views on the situation in Ukraine and Gaza, particularly considering my recent travels.”
The diplomatic bond between India and Austria, forged in 1949, has evolved into a comprehensive and dynamic partnership. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) underlined the regular and varied interactions at different levels, including those among leaders, ministers, and parliamentarians, as a clear indication of both nations' dedication to further fortifying these ties.
Economically, the partnership has shown robust growth, with bilateral trade amounting to USD 2.47 billion in 2021. The strong economic bond is further evidenced by the presence of over 150 Austrian companies in India, signifying vibrant economic cooperation.
The Indian community in Austria, which numbers 31,000, brings an exceptional aspect to this relationship, serving as a bridge between cultures and enhancing people-to-people connections.
The year 2023 marked the signing of several important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between the two countries. These agreements included an MoU for visa exemption for diplomatic passport holders and for gainful occupation for family members of diplomatic staff. Additionally, the nations agreed on a joint declaration for a working holiday and a comprehensive migration and mobility partnership agreement.
Last year also witnessed the signing of an MoU dedicated to cultural cooperation for the period 2022-2026, illustrating a mutual commitment to fostering cultural exchanges.
Important discussions during presidential visits have spanned a broad range of topics, from economic and commercial cooperation to scientific collaboration and people-to-people exchanges.
The current conversation between EAM Jaishankar and FM Schallenberg, focusing on the situations in Ukraine and Gaza, reasserts the strategic significance both nations attribute to global peace and stability. It also mirrors the continued dedication of India and Austria to collaboratively address international issues of shared interest.
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