The City of Melbourne has taken steps to establish two new Friendship City relationships in India as part of its latest business mission — the first such visit in nearly two decades.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece, accompanied by Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell and Councillor Andrew Rowse, met senior officials in Delhi and Bengaluru to strengthen economic, cultural, and knowledge-exchange ties. The delegation said the initiative aims to create jobs, expand cooperation corridors, and formalise long-term partnerships with key Indian cities.
Highliting his sentiments on the visit Lord Mayor Reece posted on Linkedin,
“Two new Friendship Cities in India! Melbourne’s connection with India is growing stronger every day.”
Lord Mayor Reece said he was proud of Melbourne’s efforts to create more jobs, establish new exchange corridors, and forge Friendship Cities. He noted that further announcements and insights would come from the Indian Business Mission — and added, “Jai Hind! Jai Maharashtra!”.
In Delhi, the Lord Mayor met with Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh and MCD Commissioner Ashwani Kumar, where both sides signed a Letter of Intent to explore a potential Friendship City agreement. The City of Melbourne described Delhi as a natural partner given its status as India’s capital and Melbourne’s position as home to one of the largest Indian diasporas in Australia.
The delegation also visited Bengaluru, widely known as India’s technology hub. The city ranks 14th globally for start-up activity, compared with Melbourne’s 32nd position.
During the visit, the Lord Mayor met Indian tennis superstar Rohan Bopanna, winner of the 2024 Australian Open men’s doubles title and the oldest man in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam men’s doubles championship.
Officials noted opportunities for collaboration across innovation, sports and cultural sectors, highlighting Bengaluru’s reputation as the “Garden City” and its strong sporting links to the Australian Open.
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