The Indian diaspora in Australia not only strongly contribute to our economic and social fabric, they enable us as a nation to have a strong linkage through our people to people ties with our growing and trusted relationship with India. India is a nation with which we share democratic values, the rule of law and peace and prosperity for our region. Yet the racism we witnessed against Indian Australians ignored their positive contribution and the value of migration to Australia more broadly. Migrants are baring the brunt of a range of issues in our society and it isn’t the first time. My heartfelt concern is with our South Asian diaspora who are feeling this.
Next week, the Institute will bring Indian and Australian experts to Canberra for the inaugural Australia India Defence Conclave, to be launched by Indian Defence Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh as part of his bilateral visit to Australia. The Conclave will aim to translate this shared vision for the Indo-Pacific into tangible defence capabilities, building upon work contained in the Institute’s capstone report, ‘Building a Resilient Australia India Defence Relationship’.
The following week we will host our Annual Oration in New Delhi to be delivered by the Hon. Chris Bowen MP, Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy. This is the Institute’s premier event and Minister Bowen’s oration comes at a pivotal time for Australia India climate and energy cooperation.
I was pleased to meet the Australian Consul General in Chennai, Ms Silai Zaki at our offices in Melbourne this month. It was wonderful to discuss strengthening our bilateral collaboration in the states she covers in South India.
As part of the Institute’s Security and Geopolitics program, I’m delighted to welcome Dr Teesta Prakash as our Research Fellow. Teesta’s knowledge, skills and energy is a welcomed addition to the Institute. At the same time we farewelled Head of Strategic Communications, Sarah Whyte who will be on maternity leave. To that effect, I’d like to warmly welcome Laura Hooper who has joined the Institute as the Communications Manager.
Finally, wishing everyone who celebrates a happy Navratri!