Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday departed for a two-day visit to Russia, where he will meet President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and hold talks with him over a range of issues. PM Modi will also visit Austria on July 9 and 10 after wrapping up his engagements in Russia.
Before his departure, PM Modi said his upcoming visits to Russia and Austria would present an opportunity for India to boost relations between both countries. He described that India shared a time-tested friendship with both countries.
The Prime Minister also said he looked forward to interacting with the Indian community living in these countries.
Speaking about his visit to Russia, the Prime Minister said, "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."
"I look forward to reviewing all aspects of bilateral cooperation with my friend President Vladimir Putin and sharing perspectives on various regional and global issues. We seek to play a supportive role for a peaceful and stable region. The visit will also provide me an opportunity to meet the vibrant Indian community in Russia," he added.
PM Modi said he will have an opportunity to meet Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehammer. He described the country as India's steadfast and reliable partner and both countries shared the ideals of democracy and pluralism.
"This is the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister in over 40 years. I look forward to my discussions to take our partnership to even greater heights in new and emerging areas of innovation, technology and sustainable development among others," he said.
"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," he further said.
