Penny Wong declares deepening bond between Australia and India
The Centre for India-Australia Relations will be established in the western Sydney suburb of Parramatta, which is home to one of the country’s largest Indian expat communities.
The Albanese Labor government has introduced a new initiative to strengthen the relationship between Australia and India by creating a Centre for India-Australia Relations.
With India projected to become the world’s third-largest economy by the end of the decade, this move aims to position Australia favorably for India’s growth.
The new headquarters in Parramatta will serve as a hub for government, business, academia, the cultural sector, and Indian-Australian communities.
Senator Penny Wong, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, highlighted Australia’s potential to benefit from a closer relationship with India.
She emphasized the importance of engaging with the fast-growing Indian-Australian diaspora to better adapt to India’s diverse landscape.
The Centre’s CEO and Director Network will support Australian business leaders in connecting with India’s expanding economy.
Related Stories
Five Indian nationals participating in the Maitri Scholars Program, which offers scholarships for Indian students to pursue STEM degrees in Australia, have been selected.
These scholars will undertake PhDs focused on STEM research topics such as advanced manufacturing and clean energy solutions.
Additionally, seven Maitri fellows will conduct research projects exploring the shared future of Australia and India in areas like maritime security, climate change, and secure supply chains.
Senator Penny Wong stated that these scholars and fellows will enhance understanding of the Australia-India relationship and contribute to building lasting connections.
The Australian government will engage in consultations to develop a future economic roadmap with India.
This roadmap will expand on the 2018 India Economic Strategy and inform the negotiations for the next free trade agreement between the two countries, with a focus on agriculture and manufacturing market access.
In addition to the recent budget allocation of $14.3 million, initiatives like expanding the Australia-India Business Exchange and addressing key sectors like agrifood, education, technology, and energy and resources are underway.
Missions to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are planned to boost trade in the broader South Asia region.
Senator Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism, highlighted the positive impact of the government’s efforts in increasing trade with India.
He emphasized that the new economic roadmap will guide Australia in maximizing opportunities for trade and investment with India.
Tim Thomas, CEO of the Centre for Australia-India Relations, expressed enthusiasm for establishing the Centre in Parramatta and leveraging India’s growth opportunities.
The Centre aims to mobilize Australian stakeholders to capitalize on the potential presented by India’s economic development.
