New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) The High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, representing the Anthony Albanese-led government, has highlighted Australia’s enduring commitment to supporting migration and fostering a multicultural society. He stated that Canberra has made significant efforts to ensure the safety and welfare of Indian students studying in Australia.

In an interview with IANS, Green reiterated the Australian government's commitment to enhancing academic collaboration with India, emphasizing the various scholarship programs available for Indian students at numerous Australian universities.

Addressing concerns regarding the safety of Indian students, Green remarked, "We have exerted considerable effort on this front. Australia ranks among the safest nations globally, and we take pride in this fact. We aim for all visitors to feel secure, regardless of their origin, and we maintain a robust police force, a border force, and effective security intelligence agencies. Our goal is to ensure that Indian visitors to Australia are welcomed and feel at home."

Earlier this year, protests titled 'March for Australia' emerged across major Australian cities, with thousands rallying against what they labeled as “mass migration”.

“Similar to many countries, Australia has experienced protests, albeit from a small faction opposing immigration and multiculturalism. Our government has unequivocally stated its endorsement of continued migration to Australia in a sustainable manner and our commitment to a multicultural Australia, where individuals from all corners of the globe feel safe and celebrated,” Green informed IANS.

Regarding new scholarship initiatives and plans for academic cooperation with Indian institutions, Green accentuated: "There are numerous opportunities. Several Australian universities are offering scholarships to Indian students, and importantly, the Australian government is now providing around 15 PhD-level scholarships, particularly focused on STEM disciplines. We seek to bolster our partnership in these fields, enabling distinguished scholars from India to enhance their skills in Australia."

In September, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal indicated that India is maintaining communication with the Australian government and various diaspora organizations regarding recent anti-immigrant protests.

During a media briefing on September 5, Jaiswal noted that the Indian High Commission in Australia had communicated concerns raised by community members to the Australian government prior to the protests. The High Commission received an official acknowledgment from Australia, recognizing the protests as a concern for its diverse communities.

When asked about the anti-immigrant protests targeting Indians, the MEA spokesperson replied, "We are aware that anti-immigrant protests occurred in several Australian cities on August 31. Our High Commissioner and Consulate Generals have been in regular contact with the Australian government and community members regarding this matter. With a diaspora of nearly a million in Australia, our High Commission conveyed the concerns raised by the Indian community to the Australian government. In response, we received formal acknowledgment from Australia regarding the protests' potential impact on its diverse communities."

"Simultaneously, we observed that senior leaders and politicians from both the Australian government and the opposition have issued statements endorsing Australia’s multicultural identity. They have recognized the vital contribution of the Indian Australian community to the nation’s progress and development, showing appreciation for their role. We firmly believe that diversity is a strength. We value our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Australia, where people-to-people ties play a crucial role, significantly enhancing our strategic relations. The Government of India remains dedicated to safeguarding the welfare of all Indians abroad and is in ongoing discussions with the Australian government and diaspora organizations regarding recent developments," he added.