Transformative Shift in India-Australia Relations: Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar Highlights Four Key Factors
During an address to the Indian diaspora at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reflected on the remarkable growth in India-Australia relations over the past decade. He attributed this transformation to four main factors: the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the support of the Australian government, changing global dynamics, and the contributions of the Indian diaspora.
Jaishankar pointed out that a decade ago, Australia would not have been counted among India’s closest allies, but today the situation has changed significantly. Sharing his experience, he mentioned that this was his fifth visit to Australia in the last three years and recalled his first trip when he was serving as India’s Foreign Secretary. He also highlighted a book he recently launched, which discusses India’s seven crucial partnerships, with Australia being one of them. He noted that if the book had been written ten years ago, it’s unlikely Australia would have been featured as prominently.
According to Jaishankar, the first key factor in this evolving partnership has been Prime Minister Modi’s proactive leadership in building stronger international relationships. Second, the Australian government’s openness and willingness to engage has fostered deeper ties. Third, changing global dynamics have brought India and Australia closer as they respond to shared challenges. Lastly, the Indian diaspora in Australia has played an essential role in strengthening cultural and social connections between the two countries.
Jaishankar emphasized that these four factors combined have ushered in a new era in India-Australia relations, and he expressed optimism about the future of this partnership.
