Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised in Vienna that Bharat has given ‘Buddha’ to the world, not ‘Yuddha’, affirming the country’s commitment to maintaining global harmony in the 21st century.
Addressing the Indian diaspora, PM Modi highlighted Bharat’s role as a harbinger of peace and prosperity.
“For thousands of years, we have been sharing our knowledge and expertise. We didn’t give ‘yuddha’ or war, we gave the world ‘Buddha’. Bharat always gave peace and prosperity, and therefore Bharat is going to strengthen its role in the 21st century,” PM Modi said, underlining Bharat’s future aspirations on the global stage.
Grateful to the Indian community in Austria for their warmth and affection. Addressing a programme in Vienna. https://t.co/W9ECc7XqXq
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 10, 2024
PM Modi described his visit to Austria after 40 years as “meaningful,” noting the celebration of 75 years of friendship between Bharat and Austria. He highlighted the shared democratic values of liberty, equality, pluralism, and respect for the rule of law that bind the two nations.
Addressing the transformative progress of Bharat over the past decade, PM Modi expressed confidence in its trajectory to become the third largest economy soon, aiming to achieve developed nation status by 2047. “Today, Bharat is growing at 8 per cent, set to enter the top 3 economies globally. Our mission is 2047, when we celebrate 100 years of independence as a developed nation,” he declared.
Besides, PM Modi discussed potential collaborations with Austria in green growth and innovation, leveraging Bharat’s robust startup ecosystem and high growth rate. He urged the Indian diaspora to maintain cultural and emotional ties with Bharat while contributing to their new homeland’s prosperity.
Highlighting Austria’s long-standing interest in Indian philosophy and culture, PM Modi noted the historical teaching of Sanskrit at Vienna’s university and the establishment of an independent chair for Indology in the 19th century. He appreciated the deep intellectual engagement of Austrian scholars with Bharat.
The event, attended by Austrian Federal Minister of Labour and Economy Martin Kocher, drew participation from over 31,000 Indians residing in Austria, including professionals in healthcare, multilateral UN bodies, and around 500 Indian students pursuing higher education.