India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, announced the opening of a consulate in Brisbane, In response to a long-standing request from the diaspora. With the help of the Indian diaspora, this strategic action intends to strengthen ties between India and Australia while demonstrating the mutual respect and trust it has helped to establish. With this development, Brisbane will become one of the primary destinations for Indian consulates in Australia, along Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth.
Connecting with the Indian Diaspora in Brisbane
Prime Minister Modi spoke to an excited crowd of nearly 21,000 people at the Qudos Bank Arena and expressed his joy at getting to know the Indian community there. Notable individuals, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, attended the community event, underscoring the significance of this declaration.
ऑस्ट्रेलिया में भारतीय संस्कृति की सुगंध फैला रहीं मां भारती की संतानों से मेरा एक आग्रह… pic.twitter.com/Tn7uAyWe4G
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 23, 2023
Strengthening Mutual Relations
Prime Minister Modi noted in his speech the important role that the Indian diaspora has played in developing India-Australia relations. He emphasised that the two countries’ relationship goes far beyond their shared interests and historical ties.
The “3Ds” of democracy, diaspora, and dosti (friendship) were introduced by Modi as the relationship evolved from the “3Cs” era of Commonwealth, Cricket, and Curry to the “3Es” of energy, economy, and education. These changes reflect the relationship’s tremendous depth and complexity between India and Australia.
The Vision of the Australian Prime Minister for Enhanced Relations
Anthony Albanese, the prime minister of Australia, praised the Indian diaspora and their contributions to Australian culture. He appreciated the diaspora’s contribution to Australia’s strength and emphasised the value of preserving the bond between the two nations.
Specifically in the areas of business and education, Albanese expressed his desire for closer ties between Australia and India. He promoted student exchanges, which allowed for a fruitful cultural interchange and deepened understanding between the two countries. He also emphasised the importance of the experiences, information, and concepts that families, businesspeople, and artists from both nations brought to the table.