Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has sent his best wishes to Indian Australians celebrating India’s 80th Independence Day, praising the country’s achievements and the growing strength of Australia-India relations.
In a message marking the occasion, Albanese reflected on India’s journey to independence and its development over the past eight decades.
“The path to a free and independent India was anything but easy, but through the sheer power of will, belief and determination, its dawning heralded a bright new beginning filled with hope,” Albanese said.
“In the eight decades since that most extraordinary of days, India has gone from strength to strength.”
The Prime Minister described India as the world’s largest democracy and fastest-growing major economy, saying the country “fills us with awe at the scale of its achievements and the vastness of its potential”.
Albanese also highlighted the role of the Indian Australian community in strengthening ties between the two countries.
“I know that the Indian Australian community will be reflecting on the past 80 years with pride, celebrating the land of your long and rich heritage while also looking to a future that abounds with promise,” he said.
He pointed to Australia and India’s expanding economic and strategic partnership, as well as the contribution of Australians of Indian heritage.
“As I said to my friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit, our relationship has never been more consequential.”
He said the large Indian Australian community was a “living bridge” between the two countries and would play an important role as Australia and India deepen cooperation in emerging areas.
“We are excited to further deepen Australia and India’s engagement in new and growing areas – with the support of the many Australians of Indian heritage who are the living bridge in our valued friendship.”
Albanese concluded by celebrating India’s history, culture, diversity and achievements, while looking towards the future of the bilateral relationship.
“I join you in celebrating India’s history and culture, rich diversity and extraordinary achievements – and in celebrating the promise our shared future holds,” he added.
“Happy Independence Day.”
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
