As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his visit to Austria, the Congress party has emphasized the pivotal role played by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in the establishment of a sovereign and neutral Austria in the early 1950s.
Nehru’s Diplomatic Legacy
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh underscored Nehru’s instrumental efforts in the emergence of the Republic of Austria, which was officially established on October 26, 1955, now celebrated as its National Day. Ramesh highlighted that Dr. Hans Kochler, a renowned Austrian academic, documented Nehru’s crucial contributions during Austria’s post-World War II reconstruction period. Austria’s Admiration for Nehru
One of Nehru’s notable admirers was Bruno Kreisky, who served as Austria’s Chancellor from 1970 to 1983. Kreisky once remarked, “When the history of this century is written, one of the greatest and finest chapters will be the story of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.” This admiration signifies the international respect and recognition Nehru garnered for his diplomatic acumen.
Addressing Nehruphobia
In a pointed critique, Ramesh addressed what he termed “Nehruphobia” among current Indian leadership, specifically targeting PM Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Ramesh suggested that recalling Nehru’s contributions could provide valuable diplomatic insights.
Context of Modi’s Austria Visit
PM Modi’s upcoming visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Austria in over four decades. The Congress party’s reminder aims to highlight the historical ties and diplomatic foundations laid by Nehru, urging contemporary leaders to acknowledge and build upon these legacies.
Conclusion
As India and Austria look to strengthen their bilateral relations, the Congress party’s reminder of Nehru’s role underscores the importance of historical context in shaping modern diplomacy. Nehru’s contributions to Austria’s sovereignty remain a testament to his enduring legacy in international relations.
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
