Australia and Vietnam have agreed to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership, expanding cooperation in defence, maritime security, agriculture, border protection and critical supply chains during Vietnamese President To Lam's official visit to Sydney.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and President Lam discussed closer bilateral coordination amid growing geopolitical and economic uncertainty in the Indo-Pacific.

The two sides also agreed to increase cooperation in critical minerals, semiconductors and clean energy, while expressing concern over trade practices that can disrupt global supply chains.

New Maritime Security Agreement

A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Vietnam Coast Guard and the Australian Border Force.

The agreement is intended to strengthen cooperation in maritime law enforcement and improve coordination between the two agencies.

A separate agreement was also signed to expand cooperation and mutual assistance between the border forces of Australia and Vietnam.

The agreements come as both countries place greater emphasis on maritime security and maintaining stable sea routes across the Indo-Pacific.

Focus on Peaceful Dispute Resolution

President To Lam said Australia and Vietnam needed stronger dialogue and greater mutual trust as international developments become increasingly complex.

Speaking alongside Albanese, Lam said countries should strengthen dialogue, build trust and protect security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight.

He also stressed that disputes should be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law.

The comments come against the backdrop of continuing territorial disputes and strategic competition in the South China Sea.

South China Sea Remains Key Issue

Australia has increased its maritime engagement in the Indo-Pacific and regularly deploys naval vessels and surveillance aircraft in the South China Sea.

Vietnam, China and several other countries have overlapping territorial claims in the region.

In April, Australia joined Canada and the United States in a multilateral transit through the South China Sea, highlighting Canberra's broader approach to maintaining freedom of navigation in contested waters.

For Vietnam, closer cooperation with Australia provides another avenue for maritime law enforcement and regional security coordination.

Trade Ties Continue to Grow

Economic relations were also discussed during Lam's visit.

According to the joint statement, two-way trade between Australia and Vietnam increased 22 per cent year-on-year during the first half of 2026, reaching approximately $8.1 billion.

Vietnam's exports to Australia include electronics, smartphones and garments.

Australia supplies Vietnam with commodities including coal, minerals and natural gas.

The growth in trade has encouraged both countries to explore areas where their economies can become more closely integrated.

Critical Minerals and Semiconductors

Australia and Vietnam also agreed to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals, semiconductors and clean energy.

Critical minerals have become increasingly important to global manufacturing and the development of technologies such as batteries, renewable-energy systems and advanced electronics.

Both countries are looking to diversify supply chains and reduce exposure to disruptions affecting strategic industries.

Cooperation in these areas could create opportunities for investment, technology partnerships and greater integration between Australian resources and Vietnam's growing manufacturing sector.

Agriculture and Border Cooperation

Agriculture and border security were also included in the expanded bilateral cooperation agenda.

The agreements are expected to support greater institutional coordination and mutual assistance between Australian and Vietnamese authorities.

For Australia, stronger ties with Vietnam form part of its wider effort to build relationships across Southeast Asia. For Vietnam, deeper engagement with Australia provides opportunities to expand economic and security partnerships beyond its traditional relationships.

Broader Indo-Pacific Partnership

The latest agreements mark another step in the development of Australia-Vietnam relations following the elevation of their bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Both governments are seeking closer cooperation at a time when the Indo-Pacific is facing geopolitical competition, supply-chain disruptions and growing maritime security concerns.

The focus on defence, border security, critical minerals, semiconductors and clean energy reflects an attempt to broaden the relationship beyond traditional trade and diplomatic ties.

The two countries are expected to continue working together on regional security, economic resilience and practical cooperation as they deepen their strategic partnership.

Addressing a press conference in Melbourne, Misri said Indian authorities had raised concerns regarding recent changes in Australia's visa assessment process and reports of delays in the processing of student visa applications. The issue has attracted attention among Indian students planning higher education in Australia, one of the most popular overseas study destinations for Indian applicants.

Misri said the matter was discussed during interactions between Indian and Australian leaders throughout the day. According to him, both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties, which remain a key pillar of the India-Australia relationship.

He noted that Australian authorities acknowledged that certain visa verification procedures have become more rigorous than before. However, they also conveyed that the changes were intended to strengthen the integrity of the system and would not reduce opportunities for genuine and qualified students from India.

The Foreign Secretary also dismissed speculation that Australia was considering a halt on new student visa applications from Indian applicants. Referring to reports circulating on various platforms, Misri said there was no indication that such restrictions were being planned.

According to him, Australia has reassured India that legitimate students seeking higher education in Australian institutions will continue to be welcomed and that access to educational opportunities will remain open and fair.

The issue comes at a time when educational cooperation has emerged as a major component of bilateral engagement between the two countries. Australia hosts a large Indian student population, with thousands of students enrolling each year in universities and vocational institutions across the country.

Misri said India remains confident that Australia will continue to provide a transparent and accessible environment for students pursuing academic and professional goals abroad. He added that student mobility and academic exchanges are important elements of the broader strategic partnership between the two nations.

The remarks came as Prime Minister Modi participated in the “Melbourne Meets Modi” community event during his visit. The programme highlighted the growing contribution of the Indian diaspora to Australian society and the deepening ties between the two countries.

Speaking at the event, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the Indian community for its role in Australia's economic and social development. He said Indian-origin professionals have helped address skill shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare and information technology while also contributing to entrepreneurship and innovation.

Albanese also acknowledged the contribution of Indian students to Australia's education sector. He said many students from India continue to choose Australia as a destination for higher studies and long-term career development, particularly in the state of Victoria.

Education has become one of the strongest links between India and Australia in recent years, alongside trade, technology, defence cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. The assurances provided during the visit are expected to offer clarity to prospective students and their families amid concerns over changing visa procedures.

Further details regarding any future policy adjustments are awaited, but both governments have indicated that educational engagement will remain an important area of cooperation in the years ahead.

The announcement marked a significant step in the growing strategic partnership between India and Australia, with both countries seeking deeper engagement in sports development, athlete training and sports-related industries.

The roadmap is designed to strengthen cooperation across multiple areas, including sports training and capacity building, sports science and technology, sports infrastructure, investment opportunities and industry partnerships. It also proposes the organisation of an India-Australia Youth Sports Festival to encourage greater interaction between young athletes from both countries.

The launch event at the MCG brought together sports personalities, officials and community representatives. Former Australian cricket captain Steve Waugh and former Australia women’s cricketer Lisa Sthalekar were among the prominent sporting figures present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Modi described sports as a powerful force that brings people together beyond geographical and cultural boundaries. He said the new roadmap would help make sporting cooperation between India and Australia broader, stronger and more diverse in the years ahead.

The Prime Minister also congratulated Australia on its recent success in women’s cricket, highlighting the role of sporting excellence in strengthening mutual respect and collaboration between nations.

The initiative comes at a time when India and Australia are increasingly expanding their partnership beyond traditional sectors such as trade, defence and education. Officials from both countries view sports as an important pillar of people-to-people engagement and cultural exchange.

During his address, Modi said the two countries were entering a significant decade for international sport. He pointed to India's preparations to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and Australia's ongoing work ahead of the Brisbane Olympics in 2032.

According to the Prime Minister, these major sporting events will create fresh opportunities for collaboration in athlete development, sports management, infrastructure planning, technology and related industries. He noted that the growing scale of international sporting competitions requires nations to share expertise and work together more closely.

The leaders also interacted with young athletes participating in exhibition events featuring cricket, kabaddi and Australian rules football. The interaction highlighted the roadmap’s focus on youth engagement and grassroots sports development.

Players had the opportunity to meet both prime ministers, discuss their sporting journeys and showcase their skills. Organisers said such exchanges could help strengthen long-term sporting links between future generations in India and Australia.

The MCG visit carried symbolic significance as well. The stadium has hosted several memorable India-Australia cricket contests over the decades and remains one of the most recognisable sporting venues in the world. The launch of the roadmap at the historic ground reflected the central role sport continues to play in bilateral relations.

Officials from both countries welcomed the initiative, describing it as an important framework for future cooperation. Beyond elite competition, the roadmap is expected to encourage collaboration in coaching, sports medicine, innovation, event management and talent identification.

The visit brought together young athletes, sports administrators and former sporting greats at one of cricket’s most celebrated venues. Modi’s interaction with emerging players highlighted the growing emphasis both nations are placing on sports development and people-to-people engagement.

Young athletes gathered at the MCG enthusiastically welcomed the Indian Prime Minister, with several taking photographs and seeking autographs. Former Australian cricket captain Steve Waugh was also present during the event and met both leaders.

Addressing the gathering, Modi said the Melbourne Cricket Ground evokes special memories for Indians because of the rich history of India-Australia cricket contests. He noted that cricket remains a shared passion connecting millions of people in both countries.

However, the Prime Minister stressed that future cooperation would not remain limited to cricket alone.

According to the roadmap unveiled by the two leaders, India and Australia will work together across a wider range of sporting disciplines. Areas identified for cooperation include athlete development, sports science, coaching, sports technology, sports management and talent identification.

Modi said he had the opportunity to interact with young athletes involved in cricket, kabaddi and Australian rules football, describing sports as an effective bridge between societies.

The initiative comes at a time when both countries are seeking to expand cooperation beyond traditional sectors such as trade, defence and education. Sports has increasingly emerged as an important component of bilateral engagement, supported by strong people-to-people connections and a large Indian diaspora presence in Australia.

During his remarks, the Prime Minister also highlighted India's efforts to strengthen its sporting ecosystem through programmes such as Khelo India. He said the initiative has opened opportunities for talented athletes from smaller towns, villages and ordinary families to pursue competitive sports at higher levels.

India's ambitions in global sport also featured prominently in the discussion. Modi reiterated India's intention to host the 2036 Olympic Games, while noting that Brisbane will host the 2032 Olympics. He said major international sporting events create opportunities for nations to collaborate in infrastructure development, athlete training and knowledge sharing.

The Prime Minister also referred to women's cricket and conveyed his best wishes to the Australian women's team. Looking ahead, he said sporting exchanges between India and Australia would continue to grow as both countries learn from each other's experiences.

In a notable announcement, Modi said a match of Australia's Big Bash League would be staged in Chennai, reflecting the growing commercial and sporting links between the two cricket-loving nations. He observed that sporting events held in India benefit from significant audience reach and fan engagement. The launch of the sports collaboration roadmap adds another dimension to the expanding India-Australia relationship, which has seen increasing cooperation across multiple sectors in recent years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering of nearly 30,000 members of the Indian diaspora in Melbourne on Thursday during his official visit to Australia, describing his third visit to the country in 12 years as a "hat-trick" while highlighting the growing strategic partnership between India and Australia.

The event, attended alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, celebrated the deepening people-to-people ties between the two nations. National anthems of both countries were played before the leaders addressed the gathering.

Speaking to the audience, Modi recalled his landmark 2014 visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Australia in 28 years. "When I visited Australia in 2014, I had said you would not have to wait another 28 years. This is my third visit in the last 12 years—a hat-trick of visits," he said, drawing applause from the crowd.

India, Australia Sign Key Agreements

The visit also marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with India and Australia announcing agreements across several strategic sectors, including defence, trade, energy, space, and critical minerals.

One of the major announcements was Australia's decision to begin supplying uranium to India, a move expected to support India's clean energy programme and long-term nuclear power expansion.

The two countries also agreed to jointly develop a Critical Minerals Corridor, aimed at strengthening supply chains for minerals essential to emerging technologies and clean energy.

In the space sector, both sides announced plans to establish a space tracking terminal on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which will support India's ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.

Focus on Energy and Investment

Addressing business leaders and the Indian community, Modi said India and Australia are emerging as trusted partners amid global geopolitical and energy challenges.

He reiterated India's target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and 100 GW of nuclear power generation by 2047, noting that Australian uranium and advanced technologies would contribute significantly to these goals.

The Prime Minister also invited Australian businesses to invest in India's rapidly expanding infrastructure sector, including ports, airports, highways, railways, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, data centres and digital technologies.

He said India's exports to Australia have doubled since the implementation of the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) and expressed confidence that negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement would be concluded soon.

Cricket Analogy Draws Cheers

Using a cricket analogy familiar to audiences in both countries, Modi described India-Australia relations as a perfect blend of all formats of the game.

"Our meetings have the focus of a One-Day International, decisions are taken with the speed of a T20 match, and our partnership is as strong and enduring as a Test match," he said.

The remarks received enthusiastic applause from the diaspora gathering.

Education and Sports Collaboration

The Prime Minister also highlighted the growing educational partnership between the two nations.

He noted that thousands of Indian students are pursuing higher education in Australia and pointed out that Australian institutions, including Deakin University and the University of Wollongong, have already established campuses in India. He added that several other Australian universities are preparing to expand their presence in the country.

Modi also said sports continue to strengthen ties between India and Australia, while reaffirming India's ambition to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Warm Community Welcome

Earlier in the day, Modi met Victoria Governor Margaret Gardner at Government House, where he was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour. He also participated in the Australia-India CEO Forum before attending the community event.

Members of the Indian diaspora welcomed the Prime Minister with cultural performances, including Kathak dance and a fusion performance featuring renowned didgeridoo artist Ron Murray and tabla player Dr. Sam Evans.

Sharing photographs from the event on social media, Modi described the cultural welcome as a reflection of the vibrant bond between India and Australia.

The visit underscores the expanding strategic, economic and cultural partnership between the two Indo-Pacific democracies, with both governments signalling their commitment to strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors in the coming years.

India and Australia on Thursday elevated their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership by signing a series of landmark agreements spanning civil nuclear energy, defence, trade, critical minerals, emerging technologies and space cooperation. The announcements came after delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese during the Third India-Australia Annual Summit in Melbourne.

The most significant outcome of the summit was Australia's decision to begin supplying uranium to India for peaceful civilian purposes under the 2015 Australia-India Nuclear Cooperation Agreement. The arrangement is expected to strengthen India's long-term clean energy ambitions while deepening bilateral cooperation in the civil nuclear sector.

Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Modi described India and Australia as trusted partners capable of working together to address global challenges ranging from energy security to resilient supply chains. He said Australian uranium would support India's ambitious nuclear power expansion, complementing the country's renewable energy targets.

Boost to Clean Energy Partnership

India has set a target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. Modi said Australia's abundant uranium reserves, technological expertise and investment potential would contribute significantly to India's clean energy transition.

The two countries also announced plans to establish a Critical Minerals Corridor, aimed at strengthening supply chains for minerals essential to electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, batteries and advanced manufacturing technologies.

The initiative comes as several countries seek to diversify supplies of critical minerals amid growing geopolitical competition and concerns over concentrated global production.

Space and Technology Cooperation Expands

In another major announcement, Australia agreed to host a temporary space tracking terminal on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands to support India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. The facility is expected to improve communication and tracking capabilities during future Indian crewed space missions.

Both leaders also committed to expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, semiconductors, cyber security and digital public infrastructure. Modi highlighted that India has committed more than $10 billion towards AI, quantum computing and semiconductor manufacturing, creating opportunities for Australian technology companies and investors.

The two countries also welcomed a new Australia–Canada–India Technology and Innovation Partnership to promote collaboration in emerging technologies.

Defence and Maritime Ties Strengthened

Security cooperation featured prominently during the summit, with India and Australia unveiling a Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation.

The agreement includes the establishment of an India-Australia Defence Innovation Corridor connecting defence start-ups, industries and research institutions. Both nations also agreed to deepen cooperation in shipbuilding, repair and maintenance while enhancing interoperability between their armed forces through more complex joint military exercises.

Additionally, the two sides endorsed a Joint Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap aimed at ensuring a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific region.

Trade, Investment and Economic Cooperation

Prime Minister Modi called for accelerating negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), describing it as a balanced and mutually beneficial trade pact that would unlock greater investment and business opportunities.

He noted that India's exports to Australia have doubled since the implementation of the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), reflecting the growing strength of bilateral trade.

The Prime Minister invited Australian investors to participate in India's rapidly expanding infrastructure sector, including ports, airports, highways, railways, data centres and clean manufacturing projects. He also proposed stronger partnerships between states, universities, industries and smaller cities in both countries to broaden the scope of bilateral engagement.

Shared Vision for the Indo-Pacific

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism, strengthening regional stability and promoting dialogue to resolve global conflicts. They reiterated support for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific and pledged closer coordination through regional and multilateral forums.

Using a cricket analogy to describe the relationship, Modi said India-Australia meetings combine the strategic planning of a One-Day International, the speed of a T20 match and the endurance of a Test series, underscoring the long-term nature of the partnership.

The summit marked another significant milestone in India-Australia relations, signalling closer cooperation across strategic sectors ranging from nuclear energy and defence to advanced technology, critical minerals and space exploration.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described India's economic trajectory as remarkable, predicting the country will become the world's third-largest economy before the end of this decade. Speaking in Parliament in Canberra, Albanese said the rise presents a major opportunity for the entire Indo-Pacific region.

He recalled his first visit to India as a backpacker in 1991, noting that he has returned several times since, including twice in his current capacity as Prime Minister.

Train travel remark draws attention

Sharing his personal experiences, Albanese remarked that travelling across India by bus or train remains the most authentic way to grasp the country's essence. "Travelling by train is the best way to understand India," he said, pointing to the nation's diversity, pace of development, and growing global influence.

His comments come at a time when India-Australia relations have seen significant deepening across multiple sectors, including trade, defence, education, and cultural exchange.

Growing strategic partnership

Albanese emphasised that Australia's geographic position as both a Pacific and Indian Ocean nation makes its partnership with India strategically vital. He noted that ties between Canberra and New Delhi have strengthened considerably in recent years, with cooperation expanding beyond traditional areas into newer domains such as critical technologies and renewable energy.

The Australian PM also highlighted sporting links, particularly cricket, as an area that continues to bring the two countries closer.

Modi likely to visit in July

According to sources familiar with the schedule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to travel to Australia in early July. Albanese confirmed he looks forward to hosting Modi again, their second meeting in Australia following the Prime Minister's previous visit in May 2023.

Officials indicated that the upcoming visit would focus on further cementing economic and strategic ties, with several agreements expected to be finalised.

Defence ministers to meet next week

Meanwhile, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles will arrive in New Delhi next week for the second India-Australia Defence Ministers' Dialogue. He is scheduled to hold talks with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Marles described Australia and India as now being "top security partners", noting that defence relations between the two countries have witnessed unprecedented progress. The discussions are expected to cover maritime security, joint exercises, and deeper operational cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.

Initial reports indicate that both sides are likely to announce new initiatives aimed at enhancing military interoperability. Local authorities in New Delhi have begun preparatory arrangements for the high-level engagements scheduled over the coming weeks.