PM Modi Addresses Indian Community at Marvel Stadium
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised the Indian community in Australia for seamlessly blending into the country's multicultural fabric. Speaking at the 'Melbourne Meets Modi' event at Marvel Stadium, he compared Indians to sugar dissolving in milk, making it sweeter. 'We Indians keep infusing the world with the essence of our love. The milk at home might be Australian, but the tea brewed is Indian. The lentils and vegetables are Australian, yet they are tempered with authentic Indian spices,' he said.
Around 30,000 people gathered to hear PM Modi, who is on a three-day visit to Australia. The gathering is perhaps the largest such event by any leader in Australia.
Contributions to Australia's Growth
Modi praised the diaspora for contributing to Australia's development while maintaining deep ties with India. 'While the physical distance spans thousands of kilometres, your daily routine remains deeply connected to India. Alongside this routine, you are all contributing with full vigour to Australia's development. I am proud of you all,' he told the crowd.
Operation Sindoor and Defence Prowess
The Prime Minister highlighted India's defence capabilities during Operation Sindoor, stating that while strikes destroyed terror hubs, echoes were heard worldwide. 'The world is witnessing the capability and credibility of India's defence platforms. The explosions were taking place at terrorist hideouts, but their echoes were heard across the entire world. When such a decisive strike was carried out against terror camps, did you feel pride or not?' he asked.
Make in India and Global Reach
Modi underlined India's rise as a manufacturing power over the past 12 years, noting that 'Make in India' has become a global brand. 'Our mobile phones and electronics have reached markets across the globe. Our automobiles and pharmaceutical products have expanded their global footprint,' he said.
Aspirations for Developed Nation Status
He spoke about India's goal to become one of the world's top three economies, driven by the motto 'Grow more, achieve more.' 'The India of the 21st century is working towards the goal of becoming a developed nation. When one dream is realised, a new one is born. This is an India that believes in 'Grow More, Achieve More.' We are a nation of 1.4 billion people, brimming with aspirations,' he added.
Australian Leaders Praise Diaspora
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, also present at the event, lauded the Indian diaspora as the 'living bridge' between Australia and India. 'The energy that we feel in here tonight defines the Australia-India partnership. It is an enthusiasm and a dynamism that drives the positivity and promise of our two nations and peoples,' he said. He paid tribute to more than one million Australians of Indian origin, noting their generosity in times of crisis.
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan said Victoria deeply values its partnership with India and welcomed Indian students, businesses, families and ideas. 'India is not just a country we trade with, it is a country we trust,' she stated.
Bilateral Summit Outcomes
Earlier in the day, PM Modi concluded a high-level summit with Albanese in Melbourne, resulting in 18 landmark outcomes that reinforce ties across defence, energy, critical technology, and trade, expanding the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
