India-Australia discuss strategic partnership in critical sectors
India and Australia engaged in a 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue aiming to enhance defense collaboration and strengthen their strategic partnership across various sectors, including critical minerals, trade, and investment. During the meeting in New Delhi, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles, along with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, marking the second India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.
Naturally, discussions during the Dialogue addressed the Indo-Pacific situation amid China's military ambitions. External Affairs Ministry Spokesman Arindam Bagchi, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), mentioned that the ministers would discuss broadening the multifaceted India-Australia relationship. This encompassed various aspects such as defense, security, trade, investment, critical minerals, energy, climate change, science and technology, space, education, and fostering people-to-people connections. Additionally, the agenda included deliberations on regional and global issues.
Prior to the meeting, Ms. Wong and Mr. Marles visited the National War Memorial to honor soldiers who made ultimate sacrifices. Reflecting on the historical military ties between India and Australia, Wong, on X, highlighted the longstanding relationship, noting instances like Australian soldiers fighting alongside Indian troops in significant campaigns, including at Gallipoli.