External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar’s visit to Australia from November 3 to 7, 2024, marked significant strides in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. This high-profile trip, his fifth in less than three years and second in 2024, reflected the deepening collaboration and regular diplomatic engagement between India and Australia.

Deepening Business and Investment Ties

A major highlight of Jaishankar’s itinerary was his engagement with business leaders and CEOs in Sydney. In coordination with the Business Council of Australia, these discussions aimed at fortifying business and investment connections. EAM Jaishankar underlined the transformations taking place in India’s digital infrastructure, manufacturing, and skill development sectors. “A good start to the day meeting CEOs and Business leaders in Sydney,” he shared on social media, illustrating the positive momentum of the interactions. He also pointed out the natural complementarities between India and Australia that support robust economic growth for both nations.

Strategic Dialogues in Canberra

In Canberra, Jaishankar met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who affirmed the significance of the growing bilateral partnership. “Our growing relationship with India matters to Australia. Great to meet with External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar today in Canberra,” Albanese posted on social media, highlighting the strategic importance of the meeting. The discussions underscored both countries’ dedication to regional stability and prosperity through enhanced cooperation.

Additionally, Jaishankar engaged in dialogue with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Their joint participation at the ‘Raisina Down Under’ event—an Australian adaptation of India’s flagship Raisina Dialogue—focused on shared global and regional challenges, reinforcing the strategic alignment between the two nations.

New Indian Consulate in Brisbane: A Diplomatic Milestone

A key moment of the visit was the inauguration of the Indian consulate in Brisbane, which Jaishankar described as a “milestone” in India-Australia relations. “Today is a landmark moment and certainly a milestone in our increasingly strong bilateral relationship,” he stated. The new consulate is expected to enhance consular services and strengthen ties with the Indian community in Australia, further cementing the bilateral relationship.

Celebrating the Indian Community’s Role

Jaishankar lauded the Indian diaspora for serving as a “living bridge” between the two countries. He acknowledged their substantial contributions across academia, business, technology, and healthcare, noting that their achievements have elevated India’s profile in Australia and enriched bilateral ties. “We have a million-strong Indian diaspora, and certainly, they are making their contribution to the vibrant and multicultural society here,” he noted, emphasizing their integral role in fostering people-to-people connections.