India is firmly committed to expanding its partnership with Australia across critical and emerging sectors, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has said. He was speaking at an event marking five years of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, held at the Australian High Commission in New Delhi.
5 Yrs Of India-Australia Strategic Ties
Jaishankar, joined by Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles, said the relationship between the two countries has undergone a “remarkable transformation” in recent years. He called for a renewed push to expand cooperation in new areas.
“We are looking at critical minerals, cyber, technology, space and sports as further domains of collaboration,” Jaishankar said. He described these sectors as essential for both nations in the coming decade.
‘Australia Among India’s Closest Partners’
In addition to sectoral cooperation, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of strategic coordination through international platforms. “We will continue to work closely through mechanisms like the Quad, the East Asia Summit, the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the United Nations and the trilateral grouping we share with France,” he said.
Reflecting on the broader evolution of ties, he noted that just a decade ago, such a deep and wide-ranging partnership would have seemed unlikely. “Today, Australia is among our closest political and security partners,” he said.
‘Trust’ Marks India-Australia Ties
Over the past five years, India and Australia have institutionalized annual summits, a 2+2 Dialogue involving foreign and defence ministers and regular high-level consultations across trade, education, energy and skill development.
Key agreements include the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), the Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement, the Mutual Recognition of Educational Qualifications and visa programmes like Work and Holiday and MATES. Australian universities are now also establishing campuses in India.
Jaishankar also acknowledged the deepening defence cooperation between the two countries. He thanked Australia for its solidarity following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
He highlighted the role of the Indian-Australian community—now over a million strong—as a unique and growing bridge between the two democracies.
“Our relationship is defined by trust, respect and a shared vision for the future,” Jaishankar said. “We are committed to building on this momentum and taking it even further.”
