Prime Minister Modi concluded his 3-day bilateral visit to Australia on 18 November 2014, where 5 agreements were signed on social security, transfer of sentenced prisoners, combating narcotics trafficking, arts and culture, and tourism. The two countries also laid out a framework for bilateral security cooperation. Neelam Deo, director at Gateway House, comments on the outcomes of Modi’s visit to Australia, and his upcoming visit to Fiji.
Statement:
“There is a new vitality to the India- Australia relationship – the agreements signed during the visits of Tony Abbott to India and Narendra Modi to Australia in 2014 have augmented economic and security ties between the two countries.
Of the 5 agreements signed, the framework on bilateral security cooperation and the agreement on social security are key. The next test for Modi’s government lies in the operationalisation of these 5 agreements, as well as the civil nuclear cooperation agreement – for instance, the speed with which the two countries can begin the import of uranium will be critical.
Trade between India and Australia is currently below potential at $17 billion. The conclusion of negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) will be critical in pushing forward cooperation in trade, investments and services. Defence ties, on the other hand, have been stronger – maritime security has been central to defence cooperation between India and Australia, which have conducted an increasing number of naval exercises together. The new bilateral security cooperation framework will further strengthen the maritime partnership.
Similar to Modi’s reception by the Indian diaspora in the U.S., he was warmly felicitated by the 450,000 strong Indian community in Australia. His outreach to restore faith in India’s growth story and invite investment will hopefully translate into sizable investments and sensitise Australian companies to opportunities in India.
Modi’s next stop will be Fiji, an important country in the South Pacific region, where his visit will have extraordinary sentimental resonance with the large Indian-origin community, which was disenfranchised by the previous government. The importance of the visit lies in the active recognition that Fiji’s new government will bestow on the Indian-origin community, which has prospered through hard work and commitment to education. Their success is among the most inspiring stories of India’s diaspora community.
Additionally, Modi’s meetings with leaders of 14 Pacific island countries coming to Suva will be key in enabling strategic convergence and economic engagement in the South Pacific.”
For more information or interview requests, please contact Reetika Joshi at joshi.reetika@gatewayhouse.in.