Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Indian community in Vienna at an event organized in his honour by the Diaspora. On arrival, Prime Minister was greeted with special warmth and affection by the community. The Austrian Federal Minister of Labour and Economy H.E. Mr. Martin Kocher also attended the community gathering. The event drew participation of Indian Diaspora from across the country.

In his address, Prime Minister shared his thoughts on the contribution made by the Indian Diaspora to strengthening bilateral relations between India and Austria. He stated that his visit to the country at a time when the two friendly nations were celebrating 75 years of diplomatic ties, made it truly special. Recalling the shared democratic values and pluralistic ethos of the two countries, he highlighted the expanse, scale and success of recent Indian elections, where the people of India voted for continuity, giving him the mandate for a historic third term.

Prime Minister talked about the transformative progress achieved by the country in the last 10 years and expressed confidence that India will become the third largest economy in the near future, on its way to becoming a developed country - Viksit Bharat - by 2047. He talked about how Austrian expertise in green growth and innovation could partner India, leveraging its high growth trajectory and globally reputed start-up ecosystem. He also dwelt on India being a "Vishwabandhu” and contributing to global progress and well-being. He urged the community to continue nurturing their cultural and emotional bonds with the motherland, even as they prosper in their new homeland. In this context, he mentioned the deep intellectual interest in Indian philosophy, languages and thought that has existed in Austria for centuries.

Austria is home to about 31000 Indian diaspora. The Indian diaspora mainly consists of professionals working in the health-care and other sectors and in multilateral UN bodies. There are around 500 Indian students pursuing higher education in Austria.

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