“It is the people of India and Australia who make the Australia–India partnership stronger, deeper and more sustainable,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the Australia–India Economic Roadmap Business Reception hosted by the Centre for Australia India Relations in Melbourne.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne on Thursday, as India and Australia looked to deepen cooperation across defence, security, trade, education and people-to-people links.
The meeting came after Mr Modi arrived in Australia on Wednesday on the second leg of his three-nation visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand.
His arrival in Melbourne was marked by a grand welcome from members of the Indian diaspora, with cultural performances showcasing the shared heritage and growing people-to-people bonds between the two countries.
One of the highlights of the welcome was a performance by the Australian-India Orchestra, which presented Maa Tujhe Salaam.
Sharing a video of the performance on X, Mr Modi said, “The Australian-India Orchestra’s soulful presentation of Maa Tujhe Salaam was wonderful. It beautifully demonstrated how music strengthens the bonds between our people.”
“My compliments to every member of the orchestra for this memorable performance. It also shows the global popularity of Vande Mataram, particularly at a time when we are marking its 150th anniversary,” he added.
The Prime Minister also witnessed a musical performance featuring Australia’s ancient didgeridoo and India’s tabla, performed by didgeridoo artist Ron Murray and tabla maestro Dr Sam Evans.
Sharing a glimpse of the performance, Mr Modi said, “Witnessed a truly exceptional musical performance featuring Australia’s ancient Didgeridoo and India’s Tabla. The harmony between these two timeless instruments beautifully reflected the deep cultural connection between our two nations.”
He also praised the artists for preserving and celebrating musical traditions.
During the community reception, Mr Modi watched a Kathak performance and later shared photographs with the performers on X.
“Delighted to witness an outstanding Kathak performance during the welcome by the Indian community in Melbourne. Glad to see Indian dances becoming popular across Australia,” he wrote.
Mr Modi arrived in Australia after concluding his visit to Indonesia, the first leg of his three-nation tour.
During his three-day visit, Mr Modi and Mr Albanese are expected to hold wide-ranging discussions on strengthening cooperation in defence and security, trade and investment, education, mobility and people-to-people ties.
In his departure statement before the visit, Mr Modi said the Australia visit would also provide an opportunity to deepen bilateral cooperation in emerging and critical technologies, sports and sports science.
After concluding his engagements in Australia, the Prime Minister will travel to New Zealand, the final leg of his three-nation tour.
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