On Friday, India and Austria operationalised a Fast-Track Investment Mechanism (FTM) aimed at facilitating investments and ensuring timely resolution of business issues. This initiative was launched during Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker's visit to India, marking the first official visit in over four decades and highlighting the growing significance of India-Austria relations within the broader India-European Union (EU) economic framework. The FTM will provide a platform for companies and investors from both nations to address challenges, expedite approvals, and enhance the ease of doing business. The discussions at the India-Austria Business Forum in New Delhi, attended by senior officials and industry leaders, also underscored the importance of the proposed India-EU free trade agreement as a key driver for reducing trade barriers and boosting investment flows. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized India's robust economic fundamentals and the potential for deeper cooperation in sectors like sustainable development and advanced manufacturing. Currently, bilateral trade stands at about €3 billion, with approximately 160 Austrian firms operating in India, reflecting steady growth in economic engagement. The 17th session of the India-Austria Joint Economic Commission (IAJEC) was also held to further explore cooperation across various sectors, including infrastructure, digitalisation, and artificial intelligence.