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Queensland Premier’s post about strengthening ties with India flooded with racist comments

“So much disgusting, despicable racism in majority of comments here.”

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli MP recently met with Indian Consul General Neetu Bhagotia in Brisbane, reaffirming the state’s growing partnership with India. Sharing the news on Facebook, the Premier emphasised,

“India remains one of our most important trading partners and friends.”

Crisafulli further expressed plans to discuss cricket during their next meeting, highlighting the sport as a unifying element between the two nations.

While some social media users praised the initiative, others expressed bigoted views, accusing Indian immigrants of cultural disruption. One user claiming,

“Another thing—they are letting more immigrants, Muslims, and Indians into this country to destroy our culture.”

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Another added,

“Yes, good to see, but we don’t want to ever be a filthy, polluted India here.”

Positive comments praised the initiative, with one user writing,

“Such a wonderful initiative, Premier! Strengthening ties with India is a step in the right direction, especially with the incredible opportunities for trade, cultural exchange, and collaboration.”

Another noted,

“Good to see. People of India are already well-settled and integrated in many Queensland regional areas.”

One user rebuked the negativity, writing,

“So much disgusting, despicable racism in majority of comments here.”

Others soon joined in to defend the contributions of Indian professionals in fields like healthcare and emphasised the benefits of fostering closer ties with India.

Image: Seema Chauhan (Source: Supplied)

“The Australia-India trade relationship is a win-win for both nations,” said Seema Chauhan, a long-time resident of Queensland.

“India’s growing economy presents immense opportunities for Queensland businesses, and in turn, Australia’s expertise in renewable energy, education, and agriculture can significantly contribute to India’s development.”

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Despite the backlash, the meeting underscored Queensland’s commitment to bolstering trade, cultural exchange, and collaboration with India. As was reflected in Neetu Bhagotia’s post,

“We discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest. Queensland holds special importance for India, and I look forward to a fruitful partnership.”

The Queensland-India Trade and Investment Strategy 2023-2027, which was initiated under the leadership of former Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, aims to create jobs, expand exports, and boost investment opportunities. This strategy reflects a bipartisan recognition of the shared growth potential between Queensland and India. Under the five-year strategy, Queensland aims to strengthen its $21.8 billion export relationship with India.

Image: Queensland-India Trade & Investment Strategy 2023-27 launched at AIBC’s Australia India Address (Source: AIBC)

Additionally, the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), which slashed tariffs on 85% of Australian exports and 96% of imports from India, has paved the way for deeper economic collaboration. With India projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, opportunities abound in sectors like renewable energy, education, agriculture, and technology.

“Strengthening these ties not only boosts economic growth but also fosters cultural understanding, which benefits all Queenslanders,” Seema Chauhan adds.

Despite social media negativity, Queensland’s commitment to fostering a vibrant partnership with India remains unwavering. Building on the foundations laid by previous leadership, the state’s proactive approach promises to unlock immense potential for economic growth and cultural enrichment, cementing its place as a leader in Australia-India relations.

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