How is Australia Supporting India's Fight Against Cross-Border Terrorism?
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Synopsis
In a significant diplomatic meeting, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles reaffirmed his country's support for India's struggle against cross-border terrorism. This encounter with Prime Minister Modi not only highlights the ongoing collaboration between India and Australia but also sets the stage for future defence partnerships.
Key Takeaways
- Australia's support for India's fight against terrorism is reaffirmed.
- The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership marks its fifth anniversary.
- Focus on enhancing defense cooperation and security.
- Joint efforts to combat cross-border terrorism were emphasized.
- Future meetings planned to advance defense science and technology collaboration.
New Delhi, June 4 (NationPress) The Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles had a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday, emphasizing Australia's commitment to support India's battle against cross-border terrorism.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi congratulated Marles on the Australian Labor Party's historic victory in the recent federal elections. He also extended an invitation to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for the upcoming Annual Summit in India later this year.
“It was a pleasure to meet with Australia's Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles. We had a constructive dialogue aimed at enhancing the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which is celebrating its fifth anniversary today. Our mutual objective of fostering a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific remains central to our collaboration,” PM Modi shared on X after the meeting.
As per the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), both leaders exchanged views on how to further bolster the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which marked its five years on the same day.
The PMO reported that during their discussions, Deputy PM Marles reaffirmed Australia's backing of India in its fight against cross-border terrorism.
“They emphasized the necessity of enhancing cooperation in critical areas such as defence industrial collaboration, resilient supply chains, critical minerals, and emerging technologies. They reiterated that our shared vision for a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific continues to direct our bilateral efforts,” a statement released post-meeting indicated.
Earlier, Marles engaged in a bilateral conversation with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, where both ministers condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam and expressed profound condolences to the victims' families.
Singh emphasized India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism, describing New Delhi's actions towards Pakistan as measured, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible. The two nations agreed to collaborate against terrorism in all its manifestations.
“We reviewed the comprehensive array of the India-Australia defence partnership during our productive meeting with Deputy PM Richard Marles in New Delhi. His personal dedication and leadership in fortifying bilateral defence cooperation have become a significant pillar of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. India appreciates Australia’s unwavering support for our determined response to the heinous act of terror in Pahalgam,” Defence Minister Singh posted on X.
The two ministers welcomed the signing of the Australia-India Joint Research Project and agreed to enhance and diversify defence industry collaboration. They discussed advancing defence science and technology cooperation when they meet in Australia later this year for the third India-Australia 2+2 ministerial meeting. They also reviewed the progress made since the last 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue held in November 2023.
“This meeting provided both sides an opportunity to assess the status of bilateral engagements amid evolving regional and global circumstances. Discussions spanned a wide range of topics including defence strategic cooperation, security, industry collaboration, cyber and new technologies, counter-terrorism, hydrography, and maritime security. Both sides also shared insights on regional and global security matters of mutual concern,” stated a report from India’s Ministry of Defence.
Highlighting that Wednesday commemorates the fifth anniversary of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, both parties expressed satisfaction and acknowledged that defence has become a crucial pillar of their collaboration.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the profound implications of the India-Australia partnership in combating cross-border terrorism. This collaboration not only strengthens bilateral ties but also contributes significantly to regional security. With Australia expressing firm support for India's stance, it reflects a shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Richard Marles' visit?
Richard Marles visited India to express Australia's support in India's fight against cross-border terrorism and to discuss strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
What did PM Modi and Richard Marles discuss?
They discussed enhancing cooperation in defense, security, and combating terrorism, as well as celebrating the fifth anniversary of their strategic partnership.
How does this meeting affect regional security?
This meeting reinforces the commitment of both nations to work together against terrorism, enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
What are the key areas of cooperation between India and Australia?
Key areas include defense industrial collaboration, resilient supply chains, critical minerals, and emerging technologies.
What was the outcome of Marles' meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh?
Both ministers condemned recent terrorist activities and agreed to enhance collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts.
