Lagatar24 Desk
Vienna: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s historical contribution to global peace and prosperity, stating that India has given ‘Buddha’ to the world, not ‘Yuddha’ (war). Addressing the Indian diaspora in Vienna on Wednesday, Modi reinforced India’s commitment to peace, prosperity, and a significant role in the 21st century.
“For thousands of years, we have been sharing our knowledge and expertise. We didn’t give ‘Yuddha’ (war), we gave the world ‘Buddha’. India always gave peace and prosperity, and therefore India is going to strengthen its role in the 21st century,” Modi declared, a day after his discussions with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where he advocated for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Austria is the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 41 years, marking a significant moment in the 75-year friendship between India and Austria. “This long wait has come to an end on a historic occasion. India and Austria are celebrating 75 years of their friendship,” he noted.
Modi highlighted the shared values between the two nations, including democracy, liberty, equality, pluralism, and respect for the rule of law. He praised the recent general elections in India, where 650 million people exercised their right to vote, resulting in a historic third term for his administration.
“Today, India is growing at the rate of 8%. Today, we are in the 5th position, and soon, we will be in the top 3. I promised the people of my country that I would make India one of the top three economies in the world. We aren’t just working to reach the top position, our mission is 2047,” Modi said, expressing confidence that India will become the third-largest economy soon and a developed nation by 2047.
Modi also discussed potential collaborations with Austria, particularly in green growth and innovation, leveraging India’s high growth trajectory and globally reputed start-up ecosystem. He urged the Indian community in Austria to maintain their cultural and emotional bonds with India while prospering in their new homeland.
“I have always believed that relations between two countries are not built just by governments; public participation is very important in strengthening relations. That is why I consider the role of all of you important for these relationships,” Modi stated.
He acknowledged Austria’s historical interest in Indian philosophy and languages, noting that Sanskrit was taught at Vienna’s university around 200 years ago and that the establishment of an independent chair for Indology in 1880 further boosted this interest. Modi also met with eminent Indologists, observing their profound interest in India.
The event, attended by Austrian Federal Minister of Labour and Economy Martin Kocher, saw participation from the Indian diaspora across Austria. Over 31,000 Indians reside in Austria, mainly professionals in healthcare, other sectors, and multilateral UN bodies. Additionally, around 500 Indian students are pursuing higher education in Austria.
