After his visit to Russia and extensive talks with President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held a bilateral meeting with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer on the Ukraine issue and situation in Western Asia.
Reiterating his stance on the Ukraine conflict, PM Modi said, “This is not a time for war. Problems cannot be solved on the battlefield. The loss of innocent lives, anywhere, is unacceptable.”
The Indian leader also offered to mediate and cooperate to achieve peace and stability in the region.
“India and Austria emphasise dialogue and diplomacy for the earliest possible restoration of peace and stability,” Modi said.
After the talk, both leaders addressed the press from the hall where in the 19th Century, the historic Vienna Congress was hosted which provided direction for peace and stability in Europe.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said “PM Modi also elaborated in considerable detail, challenges the countries from Global South face including India. Energy security, Fertilizer Security, Food Security
Austrian Chancellor in his address said Austria can be a site for a peace process and Summit since Austria has a unique position in the European Union but is not a NATO member.
“It is particularly important to know India’s assessment and to familiarise India with European Concerns and worries,” Chancellor Nehammer said.
PM Modi met the Austrian Chancellor after meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin which holds great significance as after meeting the president, Modi understood the Russian perspective.
“Before he visited Austria PM Modi paid a visit to the Russian President therefore these talks were particularly important as PM Modi could offer his assessment regarding Russia’s intentions concerning peace restoration. Our shared objective is to achieve a comprehensive permanent peace in line with a UN Charter,” the chancellor said.
PM Modi’s visit to Russia and Austria attracted massive attention, especially from the US which asked India to urge Putin to end the war in Ukraine.
The joint statement that has been released by both sides stated, “Both leaders supported any collective effort to facilitate a peaceful resolution consistent with International Law and the UN Charter.”
“India and Austria believe that achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine requires bringing together all stakeholders and a sincere and earnest engagement between the two parties to the conflict,” the statement added.
PM Modi’s visit to Austria after Russia sends out a clear message that India wants to engage with all sides to bring a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine.
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