Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a joint press statement with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne on Thursday, declared that transnational terrorism poses an existential threat to global stability and that India and Australia are firmly united in dismantling terror networks. The statement followed the third India-Australia Annual Summit, where the two leaders discussed deepening operational convergence.
Shared Resolve Against Terrorism
PM Modi stated, "Today we held detailed discussions on many regional and international issues. India and Australia believe that terrorism poses a serious challenge not just to any one country, but to all of humanity. Therefore, our fight against terrorism is shared, our resolve unwavering, and our cooperation in this area is continuously strengthening." He also reiterated India's principled stance that military hostility cannot yield permanent solutions, advocating for negotiated settlements through dialogue and diplomacy.
Indo-Pacific Strategic Alignment
The Prime Minister conceptualised the Indo-Pacific as a vital arena for democratic values, noting that the two nations are uniquely positioned to anchor regional stability. "The Indo-Pacific is not just a meeting point of two oceans, but it also represents the shared aspirations of like-minded democracies like India and Australia. To increase cooperation in the area of security, we have signed a joint declaration," PM Modi announced. He added that tensions and wars in many parts of the world can only be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, and that together, India and Australia will strengthen peace, stability, freedom of navigation, and a rules-based order throughout the region.
Defence Innovation and Maritime Security
Outlining tangible frameworks, PM Modi detailed the India-Australia Defence Innovation Corridor, which will connect defence start-ups and industries. He also mentioned a maritime security collaboration roadmap to give new strength to shared efforts in the Indo-Pacific, along with cooperation on shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance.
Critical Minerals and Cyber Partnership
Characterising critical minerals as "vital" for strategic security and clean energy transition, PM Modi unveiled the formal launch of the Australia-India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies, and Supply Chains (PACTS). He also affirmed that India and Australia would work together on the Critical Minerals Corridor to secure resilient resource pipelines.
People-to-People Ties and Knowledge Partnership
PM Modi paid tribute to the strong people-to-people ties driving economic vitality, stating, "The most distinctive strength of our relationship is our people-to-people ties. People of Indian origin are making positive contributions to Australia's economic and social life." He also spotlighted the knowledge economy, noting that Australia has been a favourite destination for Indian students. "The opening of campuses by Australian universities in India marks a new chapter in our knowledge partnership. We will continue to strive to increase exchanges between students, professionals, and tourists between our two countries," he added.
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