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India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated the Consulate General of India in Brisbane, Australia on Monday, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. This new consulate, India's fourth in Australia, joins existing consulates in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, signifying India's growing engagement with Australia across strategic, economic, and community spheres. The establishment of this new diplomatic outpost aims to facilitate enhanced trade opportunities and provide greater support to the thriving Indian diaspora in the region.
During his inauguration address, Jaishankar expressed gratitude to the key attendees, including Queensland Governor Dr. Jeannette Young and local ministers Ros Bates and Fiona Simpson. He highlighted the significance of this event in fostering stronger partnerships and emphasized the vital role these collaborations play in furthering the two nations' shared interests. As a testament to the importance of this initiative, Jaishankar shared the event highlights on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging the positive impact these partnerships have on bilateral relations.
Beyond his diplomatic duties, Jaishankar paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at the Roma Street Parklands in Brisbane. His tribute resonated with Gandhi's enduring message of peace and harmony, a message that Jaishankar believed remains deeply relevant in today's world. This act symbolized the enduring influence of Gandhi's principles on India's foreign policy and its commitment to promoting peaceful resolutions in global affairs.
Jaishankar's visit to Australia also included a meeting with Dr. Jeannette Young, the Governor of Queensland. Their discussion centered on exploring avenues for enhancing cooperation in trade, economic projects, and investments between India and Queensland. Jaishankar described the meeting as a productive exchange, highlighting the potential for significant collaborations in these key areas.
Looking ahead, Jaishankar's agenda includes co-chairing the 15th Foreign Ministers' Framework Dialogue (FMFD) with his Australian counterpart, Penny Wong, in Canberra. He will also be delivering a keynote address at the Raisina Down Under conference, engaging with Australian leaders and stakeholders on a range of bilateral issues. These engagements will further strengthen the existing strategic partnership between India and Australia, fostering closer collaboration on issues of mutual concern.
Following his engagements in Australia, Jaishankar is scheduled to travel to Singapore. In Singapore, he will address the 8th Roundtable of the ASEAN–India Network of Think Tanks and engage in discussions with Singaporean leaders to further strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Singapore. Jaishankar's visit to both Australia and Singapore underscores India's commitment to deepening its engagement with key partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
Source: EAM Jaishankar opens fourth Indian consulate in Brisbane, pays tribute to Gandhi in Australia