NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his visit to Russia on Monday said that he looks forward to reviewing all aspects of bilateral cooperation with his ‘friend’ Russian President Vladimir Putin. PM Modi expressed his eagerness to assess all aspects of bilateral cooperation with President Vladimir Putin and exchange views on various regional and global matters.India aims to contribute to a peaceful and stable region.
“I am embarking on an official visit to the Russian Federation for the 22nd Annual Summit and my first ever visit to the Republic of Austria over the next three days,” PM Modi said in a statment.
“The Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia has advanced over the past ten years, including in the areas of energy, security, trade, investment, health, education, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges,” he added.
The Indian ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, stated that the two leaders will discuss the progress of bilateral relations and other regional matters of shared interest, as reported by ANI.
Upon his arrival in Moscow on Monday afternoon, PM Modi will be welcomed by Russian President Vladimir Putin for a private lunch. The following day, the Prime Minister will engage with the Indian community residing in Russia. Subsequently, he will pay his respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier within the Kremlin and tour an exhibition site in the capital city.
PM Modi’s most recent trip to Russia occurred in 2019 when he journeyed to Vladivostok in the Far East. Both India and Russia are part of the BRICS association, which also includes Brazil, China, and South Africa.
First visit to Austria by an Indian PM in over 40 years.
PM Modi will also visit Austria for the first time, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in over 40 years. During the three-day visit, he will meet President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehammer. Discussions will focus on strengthening the partnership in innovation, technology, and sustainable development.
The Prime Minister will also engage with business leaders to explore trade and investment opportunities. Additionally, he will interact with the Indian community in Austria, known for their professionalism and conduct. This visit underscores the strong and reliable partnership between India and Austria, rooted in shared democratic ideals.
“Together with the Austrian Chancellor, I look forward to exchanging views with business leaders from both sides to explore mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities. I will also be interacting with the Indian community in Austria who is well regarded for their professionalism and conduct,” the statement said.