Jaishankar, Austrian FM Discuss Trade, Technology and Security

India and Austria discuss expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology, infrastructure, education, space and startups, while reviewing bilateral agreements and strengthening coordination on global security issues.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger in New Delhi, to strengthen bilateral relations and explore new avenues of cooperation in trade, investment, technology, infrastructure and education. The discussions also covered opportunities in startups, space, skill development and mobility, reflecting the expanding scope of the India-Austria partnership.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar said the discussions covered several aspects of the countries’ enhanced partnership, including culture and people-to-people exchanges. He also noted that both sides exchanged views on international developments and their implications, along with opportunities to strengthen cooperation through multilateral institutions.

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Jaishankar highlighted the potential for India and Austria to work together to promote international peace and security amid an evolving global environment. He recalled Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker’s visit to India in April 2026, saying the latest discussions provided an opportunity to review progress on the understandings and agreements reached during that visit.

Economic cooperation featured prominently in the talks. Jaishankar said bilateral economic engagement was progressing well but offered considerable scope for further expansion. Both countries are seeking to deepen collaboration in science and technology, climate-related initiatives and people-to-people exchanges. Infrastructure development, industrial investment and emerging technologies also provide opportunities for businesses and institutions in both countries to strengthen their engagement.

The discussions also took place against the backdrop of growing India-European Union relations. Jaishankar expressed hope for the conclusion and entry into force of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement in the coming months, noting that stronger economic ties with Europe could provide additional opportunities for bilateral cooperation.

Security and defence cooperation were also part of the agenda. Jaishankar said the strategic, security and defence partnership between India and Austria was advancing, indicating that both governments intended to continue working across a broad range of shared priorities.

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Meinl-Reisinger’s visit to India runs from October 27 to November 2, 2026. During the visit, she is meeting Indian leaders and engaging with stakeholders to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Her visit also follows Austria’s preparations to take up a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-28 term. Jaishankar congratulated Austria on its election and expressed India’s interest in continuing cooperation within the UN framework.

The latest talks underline the two countries’ efforts to expand cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic engagement, with trade, innovation, skills, climate action and international security emerging as important areas for future collaboration.