External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored the importance of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) and Australia’s foundational role in the partnership during his address to the Indian diaspora at the University of Queensland in Brisbane on Sunday. He stated, “The QUAD ranks right up there, and Australia is a founding partner of that mechanism in terms of our bilateral ties.”
Jaishankar elaborated on the significance of a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” explaining that it holds substantial meaning in diplomatic terms. He emphasized the presence of approximately 125,000 individuals of Indian origin in Australia, including 15,000 to 16,000 students in Queensland, noting their crucial role in strengthening ties between the two nations.
In his remarks, the minister highlighted that 75% of Australia’s exports to India originate from Brisbane. He urged stakeholders to view the accomplishments of the India-Australia relationship over the past decade not just as milestones but as an indication of the potential that lies ahead.
“The framework we have established is designed for this relationship to grow and flourish in the future,” Jaishankar said. He also touched on recent advancements in educational cooperation, referencing the recent visit of India’s Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, and the pivotal role of education and research in the knowledge economy and the age of artificial intelligence.
Jaishankar is on a five-day visit to Australia from November 3 to November 7, during which he will inaugurate India’s fourth consulate in the country and co-chair the 15th Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue (FMFD) with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong in Canberra.
