A day after meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the Ukraine war with Austria, an ally of Kiev that has maintained a policy of military neutrality, and stressed the need for diplomacy.
PM Modi, speaking with Indian Prime Minister Karl Nehammer, said this is the first time in 41 years that an Indian Prime Minister is visiting Austria.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (left) and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer meet in Vienna (Heinz Peter Baader/AP)
He said India’s participation in the summit in Switzerland last month was an “important and significant signal”, adding that Austria could act as a “bridge” in taking peace efforts forward.
Modi’s visit to Moscow, his longtime partner, is his first since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (right) is received with military honours in Vienna by Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehamer (Heinz Peter Baader/AP)
He also referred to attacks on Monday in which Russian missiles struck across Ukraine, damaging the largest children’s hospital in Kyiv and killing at least 42 people across the country, including children.
“Whenever there is loss of life, be it war, conflict or terrorist attack, it pains all those who have faith in humanity,” PM Modi said on Tuesday.
“When innocent children are killed, when we see innocent children dying, our hearts hurt, and the pain is very horrible.”
In his comments on Wednesday, Modi said in general terms that he had “extensive discussions” with Nehamer about all conflicts around the world, including Ukraine.
“Both India and Austria attach great importance to dialogue and diplomacy for the early restoration of peace and stability,” he said.
“Both of us are ready to provide all possible assistance to achieve this.”
The two did not respond to questions from reporters.
