Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Vienna on July 10, 2024, underscored India’s profound global impact by contrasting the country’s historical gift of ‘Buddha’ with the ethos of ‘Yuddha’ (war). Addressing the Indian diaspora, PM Modi articulated India’s role in fostering peace and prosperity throughout history, reinforcing its strategic objectives for the 21st century.
Embracing Diplomatic Milestones
In a symbolic first visit to Austria after 41 years by an Indian Prime Minister, PM Modi characterized the occasion as “meaningful” and historic. Reflecting on the enduring 75-year friendship between India and Austria, he highlighted the shared values of democracy, liberty, pluralism, and respect for the rule of law. These values, he emphasized, form the bedrock of bilateral relations despite the geographical distance between the two nations.
Focus on India’s Democratic Spirit
During his speech, PM Modi commended India’s democratic prowess, exemplified by the recent general elections where over 650 million citizens exercised their voting rights. He lauded the efficiency of India’s electoral machinery in swiftly delivering election results, underscoring the nation’s commitment to democratic principles and continuity in governance.
Economic Aspirations and Global Leadership
Turning to India’s economic trajectory, PM Modi expressed confidence in India’s ascent as the world’s third-largest economy in the near future. With a current growth rate of 8%, he projected India’s imminent rise in global economic rankings, setting ambitious goals for achieving developed nation status by 2047, coinciding with India’s centenary of independence.
Collaborative Partnerships in Innovation
PM Modi advocated for synergistic partnerships between India and Austria in green growth and innovation. Recognizing Austria’s expertise in these domains, he envisioned mutually beneficial collaborations leveraging India’s robust startup ecosystem and high growth potential. This, he argued, would propel both nations towards sustainable development and technological advancement.
Cultural and Intellectual Bonds
Acknowledging Austria’s enduring interest in Indian philosophy and languages, PM Modi highlighted historical milestones such as the teaching of Sanskrit at Vienna’s university and the establishment of an independent chair for Indology. He commended Austria’s intellectual curiosity towards India, noting the significant contributions of Austrian Indologists in fostering cultural exchange.
Strengthening Diaspora Engagement
PM Modi emphasized the pivotal role of the Indian diaspora in nurturing bilateral relations, affirming that strong ties between nations are built not just through governments but through active public participation. He called upon the Indian community in Austria to uphold their cultural heritage while contributing to the prosperity of their host nation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, PM Modi’s visit to Austria symbolizes a significant diplomatic milestone, reaffirming India’s commitment to global peace, economic progress, and cultural exchange. His address to the Indian diaspora underscored India’s legacy as a harbinger of peace and prosperity, echoing the timeless message of ‘Buddha’ over ‘Yuddha’. As India charts its course in the 21st century, PM Modi’s vision resonates with India’s historical contributions and future aspirations on the global stage.
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.
