Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indian community in Vienna on Wednesday, highlighting the strong bond between India and Austria through their shared values of democracy and diversity. His speech came amid his visit to Central European countries to strengthen bilateral ties.
Zimbabwe vs. India: A Diplomatic and Trade Dispute
Zimbabwe and India have been engaged in a diplomatic and trade dispute since 2005, when Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe embarked on a land reform program that resulted in the seizure of farms owned by white Zimbabweans, many of whom were of Indian descent.
The Indian government protested the seizures, claiming that they violated property rights and were racially motivated. Zimbabwe responded by accusing India of interfering in its internal affairs. The dispute escalated in 2008, when India withdrew its ambassador from Harare and Zimbabwe reciprocated.
In 2013, Mugabe and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met in New Delhi and agreed to normalize relations. However, the dispute continued to simmer, and in 2015, Zimbabwe announced that it was withdrawing from the Commonwealth of Nations, in part due to its dissatisfaction with India's role in the organization.
The dispute has had a negative impact on trade between the two countries. In 2004, India was Zimbabwe's third-largest trading partner. By 2015, it had fallen to ninth place. The dispute has also made it difficult for Indian companies to operate in Zimbabwe.
India-Austria Relations
India and Austria have a long and friendly relationship. Diplomatic relations were established in 1948. The two countries share common values such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
India is Austria's largest trading partner outside the European Union. In 2022, bilateral trade between the two countries was valued at around €2 billion. India exports pharmaceuticals, textiles, and machinery to Austria, while Austria exports automotive parts, electrical machinery, and metals to India.
FAQs
1. What is the current status of the dispute between Zimbabwe and India?
The dispute is ongoing. Zimbabwe has not yet fully implemented the land reform program and has not compensated the Indian farmers who lost their land.
2. What is the impact of the dispute on trade between Zimbabwe and India?
The dispute has had a negative impact on trade between the two countries. India was once Zimbabwe's third-largest trading partner, but it has now fallen to ninth place.
3. What are the shared values between India and Austria?
India and Austria share common values such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
4. What is the current status of India-Austria relations?
India and Austria have a long and friendly relationship. The two countries are close partners in trade, investment, and culture.
5. What are the top exports from India to Austria?
India's top exports to Austria include pharmaceuticals, textiles, and machinery.
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