India and Austria have signed more than 12 defense, counter-terrorism and security treaties on science and technology

New Delhi: In a meeting with visiting Austrian Prime Minister Stock, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that India and Austria support a stable, sustainable and lasting peace in Ukraine and West Asia and reiterated that military conflict cannot solve the problem. This visit is the first by an Austrian Prime Minister in 42 years. The two sides signed more than a dozen agreements and announcements involving counter-terrorism, military and technical fields.Modi said in a media statement that the world is experiencing serious tensions and the impact is felt by everyone. “In such a tense global environment, India and Austria agree that issues cannot be resolved through military conflict. Whether in Ukraine or in West Asia, we support stable, sustainable and lasting peace. ” He added that both sides believed that reform of global institutions was crucial.Regarding West Asia, MEA Secretary Sibi George said both sides emphasized dialogue and diplomacy, including safe and unimpeded sea lanes. On Ukraine, they support a comprehensive and lasting peace based on the United Nations Charter and international law.Modi said elimination of terrorism remains a shared commitment. India and Austria signed a letter of intent to set up a joint counter-terrorism working group, condemning all forms of terrorism, including cross-border terror, Pahalgam attack and the Red Fort incident. Another letter of intent will provide an institutional framework for military cooperation and defense technology partnership, building on the India-EU Defense and Security Partnership.Bilateral relations were enhanced in 2024 when Modi visited Vienna, the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Vienna in 41 years. In addition to the six agreements, nine announcements were made covering high technology, education, space, start-ups and cybersecurity.Modi said that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement marks a new stage and India-Austria relations are entering a new era with cooperation in the fields of defence, semiconductors, technology and biotechnology.