Diplomatist Magazine Diplomatist March 2019 | Page 7

High Commission of India
Australia
MESSAGE
India-Australia relations are on a positive trajectory. The two democracies have seen enhanced engagements
in recent years. Hon'ble President of India visited Australia from 21st November to 24th November 2018. Five
Memorandums of Understanding were signed in the fi elds of disability sector, Invest India, scientifi c collaboration
and innovation, agricultural research and education and IT.
There have also been a number of offi cial and business delegations’ meetings between the two countries giving a
fi llip to ongoing cooperation under various mechanisms. Defence cooperation has been one of the major focus areas.
Recent years also saw better cooperation and coordination between the two countries in various international fora.
Australia is host to over half-a-million people of Indian origin, including over 80,000 students. People to people
contacts between the two countries is robust. Indian festivals, food & art, cultural events keep Indian consciousness
alive and vibrant in Australia. These are hugely successful events. Bilateral trade, as well as two-way investments,
are areas where the full potential is yet to be realise but both countries, especially the leadership at Political,
Bureaucratic & Business levels are determined to approximate the potential.
The initiative of Special Report-2019 Collectable Edition by Diplomatist Magazine deserves appreciation. I am
happy to see that this Edition has been able to highlight major milestones and achievements in bilateral relations
in recent years.
Best wishes,
Dr. A.M. Gondane
High Commissioner