Paul Henry, Senior Principal and Co-Founder of the renowned architectural firm Populous, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's forward-looking strategy to host major international events, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Summer Olympics. Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the Australia-India CEO Forum on Clean Energy and Nuclear Partnerships in Melbourne, Henry highlighted India's 'tremendous commitment' to sports infrastructure.
PM Modi's Vision for Global Sporting Events
Henry, whose firm designed the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, remarked: 'PM Modi's support for Ahmedabad for a possible Olympics in 2036 and also the Commonwealth Games in 2030 is very exciting, showing the kind of future thinking in India at the moment.' He noted that Ahmedabad is rapidly emerging as a premier global hub, supported by the massive success of current infrastructure like the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Deepening India-Australia Strategic Ties
The architectural expert noted that the joint appearance of PM Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the CEO Forum served as a powerful signal of the deepening strategic, economic, and cultural integration between the two nations. Populous, which has operated in India for 15 years with a dedicated head office in Delhi, sees significant potential in the country's evolving sports and entertainment sector. 'We have been operating in India for 15 years now with an office in Delhi, and it's very exciting to see the growth in cricket as well as the growth in entertainment going forward,' Henry added.
CEO Forum Focus on Clean Energy and Supply Chains
The CEO Forum, a key feature of the Prime Minister's ongoing three-nation tour, focused on fostering cooperation in clean energy and supply chain resilience. Addressing the business leaders, PM Modi emphasised the necessity of the partnership amidst global geopolitical shifts. 'The presence of all of you is a symbol of our shared confidence and shared aspirations,' the Prime Minister stated. 'Today, the world is going through a period of uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and an energy crisis. At such a time, it is both natural and necessary for India and Australia to move forward as natural and trusted partners.'
India's Growing Sports Infrastructure
The event, held in Melbourne, followed a grand welcome for the Prime Minister by the Indian diaspora, further underscoring the strong people-to-people connections that continue to underpin the growing India-Australia strategic alliance. India's ambition to host the 2036 Olympics and 2030 Commonwealth Games reflects its expanding global sporting footprint, with Ahmedabad positioned as a key venue. The Narendra Modi Stadium, the world's largest cricket stadium, stands as a testament to India's commitment to world-class sports facilities.
