India and Australia on Thursday adopted a Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation, committing to deepen military engagement, strengthen defence industrial collaboration and expand maritime security cooperation as the two countries seek to bolster strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific.
The declaration was adopted during delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the third Australia-India Annual Leaders' Summit in Melbourne.
India, Australia Adopt New Defence Declaration
The framework provides for closer strategic consultations, enhanced interoperability between the armed forces, expanded military exercises and cooperation in defence science, technology and industrial supply chains.
The two countries will also establish an India-Australia defence innovation corridor to strengthen collaboration between their defence industries.
"Our fight against terrorism is shared, our resolve is unwavering, and our cooperation is continuously strengthening," Modi said.
Uranium Pact, Critical Minerals Corridor Announced
India and Australia also concluded a nuclear energy agreement that will facilitate the supply of uranium from Australia to India.
"India and Australia firmed up an important agreement on nuclear energy. The agreement will facilitate the supply of uranium from Australia to India," Modi said.
The two sides will also work towards establishing a critical minerals corridor. According to sources, they are expected to expand cooperation in Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), coal and diesel to strengthen energy security and diversify supply chains.
Modi Pushes CECA, Stronger Strategic Partnership
Addressing the Australia-India CEOs Forum and Economic Roadmap Business Reception alongside Albanese, Modi pitched India as a long-term investment destination and called for the early conclusion of the proposed Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).
He said geopolitical uncertainty, supply chain disruptions and energy security challenges underscored the need for closer cooperation between the two countries.
"Today, the world is going through a period of uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and an energy crisis. At such a time, it is both natural and necessary for India and Australia to move forward as natural and trusted partners," Modi said. |
