India and Austria held the 8th round of Foreign Office Consultations in Vienna on Friday, undertaking a comprehensive review of their bilateral relationship. The talks reflected both sides’ commitment to strengthening diplomatic engagement across political, economic, and strategic domains while expanding cooperation in emerging areas.
The Indian delegation was led by Sibi George, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, while the Austrian side was headed by Nikolaus Marschik, Secretary General for Foreign Affairs. Discussions covered a wide range of sectors, including trade and economic cooperation, science and technology, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people ties.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the two sides also exchanged views on India–European Union relations, along with key regional and global developments of mutual interest. Cooperation in international and multilateral forums featured prominently, highlighting shared perspectives on global challenges and diplomatic coordination.
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Both countries agreed to maintain regular official exchanges to sustain momentum in bilateral ties. It was also decided that the next round of Foreign Office Consultations would be held in New Delhi at a mutually convenient time, underscoring the growing institutional framework of engagement between the two nations.
The consultations follow a series of high-level interactions between the two countries. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has held multiple engagements with Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger, including meetings on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly and a telephonic conversation earlier this year, during which both sides reaffirmed zero tolerance for terrorism and opposition to nuclear blackmail.
India and Austria established diplomatic relations in 1949, and ties have continued to deepen in recent years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Austria last year, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, further boosted engagement through discussions with Austria’s top leadership and outreach to business and cultural stakeholders.
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