Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for enhanced strategic cooperation between India and Australia, describing the partnership as essential amid ongoing global challenges. Speaking at the India-Australia CEO Forum and Economic Roadmap Business Reception in Melbourne on July 9, 2026, Modi emphasized the importance of leveraging the strengths of both nations to navigate periods of uncertainty, including supply chain issues and energy concerns.
“The presence of all of you symbolizes our shared confidence and aspirations,” Modi told the gathering. He noted that in today’s volatile world, it is both logical and vital for the two countries to advance as reliable partners. Over recent years, India and Australia have developed a robust framework for collaboration by integrating their respective capabilities.
This engagement forms part of the second leg of Modi’s three-nation tour, following his visit to Indonesia. Upon arriving in Australia on July 8, the Prime Minister received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Melbourne. The reception featured lively cultural performances that underscored the longstanding people-to-people connections between the two nations.
Highlights included a rendition of “Maa Tujhe Salaam” by the Australian-Indian Orchestra. Modi praised the performance for illustrating how music fosters closer ties between citizens of both countries. He also highlighted the global resonance of “Vande Mataram,” especially as India marks the 150th anniversary of the iconic composition.
Additionally, Modi observed a distinctive fusion performance combining the traditional Australian didgeridoo with the Indian tabla, presented by musicians Ron Murray and Dr. Sam Evans. He commended the artists for preserving their cultural heritage while building bridges between the two societies. The Prime Minister further appreciated a Kathak dance recital, expressing satisfaction at the expanding presence of Indian classical dance in Australia.
Over the course of his three-day stay, Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese are expected to hold broad discussions covering key areas such as defence and security, trade and investment, education, mobility, critical technologies, sports, and people-to-people links. Following Australia, Modi will proceed to New Zealand to conclude his regional tour.
The visit reflects the growing momentum in bilateral relations, aimed at fostering mutual prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
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