Australia to Return Cultural Artifacts to India
Australia is set to repatriate several antiquities of cultural significance to India, highlighting cooperation in protecting and preserving cultural heritage. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced in a press briefing on Thursday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for the return of these cultural artifacts.
According to the Ministry of Culture, the artifacts include a ceremonial bronze trident of Goddess Bhadrakali, a majestic granite idol of Nandi, and a basalt sculpture depicting the six-headed Karttikeya. All items date back to the 11th and 12th centuries and were originally sourced from historic temples in Tamil Nadu.
India-Australia Joint Summit Outcomes
Earlier on Thursday, the India-Australia Joint Summit statement welcomed progress on the voluntary and unconditional repatriation of First Nations ancestor remains held in India, and separately, the repatriation of Telugu remains housed in Australia. PM Modi thanked PM Albanese for the voluntary return of several cultural artifacts held in Australian collecting institutions.
In a community reception program in Melbourne, PM Modi lauded the Indian diaspora and highlighted the strength of the partnership between India and Australia. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X that PM Modi and Albanese noted the important role of the Indian diaspora and students in strengthening bilateral relations.
Indian Diaspora Contributions Praised
"The warmth, energy and affection of the community underscored the enduring bonds that connect the two countries. PM Modi underscored the Indian community's contributions to Australia's growth through merit, multiculturalism and mateship. He further highlighted the contributions of the Indian diaspora in the transformative growth India is witnessing," Jaiswal added.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on X, "Our Indian community has contributed so much to the story of modern Australia. And it's made our country a better place."
18 Major Outcomes from PM Modi's Visit
PM Modi's visit to Australia resulted in 18 major outcomes spanning defence, maritime security, energy, critical technologies, education, mining, research, and cultural cooperation, significantly expanding the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
