PM Modi likely to visit Austria after Russia

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is planning a trip to Austria in the second week of July, people familiar with the plan said, a visit that could see the two nations strengthen ties in the startup and high-tech sectors.

Modi's proposed visit to the central European nation will be the first by an Indian prime minister in four decades. It will follow his Moscow trip.

Indira Gandhi was the last Indian prime minister who visited Austria in 1983. The two nations are currently observing the 75th year of establishment of bilateral relations.

Austria is not a member of NATO and has maintained its economic ties with Moscow amid the Ukraine conflict. However, it has condemned Russia following the Ukraine conflict and Vienna continues to support efforts aimed at ending hostilities and starting a political peace process. The European Union nation plays an important role in India's startup, high tech and education sectors.

With a strong emphasis on research and development, Austria has cultivated a fertile ground for startups to thrive, particularly in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and information technology.