Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his landmark state visit to Australia, marking a significant milestone in the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The visit focused on strengthening cooperation in trade, defence, clean energy, maritime security, sports and people-to-people ties.
The economic agenda gained momentum during the India-Australia CEOs Forum, where leaders highlighted a 55 percent increase in bilateral trade since the implementation of the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) in 2022. Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese agreed to accelerate negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).
A major achievement of the visit was the finalisation of administrative arrangements for the long-term supply of Australian uranium to India under the 2014 bilateral framework. The two nations also adopted a Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation along with a Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap aimed at promoting a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific region.
The visit witnessed strong public engagement during the "Melbourne Meets Modi" community event at Marvel Stadium, where around 25,000 members of the Indian diaspora welcomed the two leaders. Prime Minister Modi described the Indian-Australian community as a "living bridge" connecting both countries, while Prime Minister Albanese praised its contribution to Australia's multicultural society and economy.
Prime Minister Modi also met Australian Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, who reaffirmed bipartisan support for stronger India-Australia ties and endorsed cooperation in renewable energy and peaceful uranium exports.
Sports diplomacy emerged as another highlight of the visit at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where both leaders launched the India-Australia Sports Collaboration Roadmap. The initiative aims to strengthen cooperation in sports science, athlete development and infrastructure as India prepares for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and Australia hosts the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
A major cricketing announcement was also made, confirming that the opening match of the Australian Men's Big Bash League will be played in Chennai this December as part of the week-long G'Day Namaste festival in India.
Following the successful conclusion of his engagements in Australia, Prime Minister Modi departed for Auckland, New Zealand, for the next leg of his three-nation tour.
