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.

India has retained its position as the fourth-most successful nation in Commonwealth Games history, taking its overall medal tally to 603 medals following the conclusion of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The latest edition added 39 medals to India's overall tally, helping the country strengthen its position as the most successful Asian nation in Commonwealth Games history.

Australia Continues to Dominate

Australia remains the most successful nation in Commonwealth Games history with 2,775 medals, including 70 gold, 45 silver and 56 bronze medals at Glasgow 2026, where it topped the medal standings for the 15th time.

England occupies second place on the all-time list with 2,432 medals, while Canada is third with 1,709 medals.

India follows in fourth place with an overall haul of 603 medals, comprising 216 gold, 207 silver and 180 bronze medals across its Commonwealth Games appearances.

India Extends Asian Dominance

India concluded the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games with 39 medals, including 13 gold, 17 silver and nine bronze, finishing fourth in the overall medal standings for the second consecutive edition after Birmingham 2022.

A total of 123 Indian athletes competed in Glasgow, with 38 athletes finishing on the podium.

India has now participated in 19 editions of the Commonwealth Games since making its debut in 1934, missing only the 1930, 1950, 1962 and 1986 editions.

Shooting and Wrestling Lead Medal Count

Despite being absent from the Commonwealth Games programme since Gold Coast 2018, shooting remains India's most successful discipline in terms of gold medals.

Indian shooters have won 135 medals, including 63 gold medals, making shooting the country's most successful gold-producing sport at the Games.

Wrestling has contributed the highest overall medal count with 141 medals, although it has produced fewer gold medals than shooting.

Other major contributors to India's Commonwealth Games success include boxing, with 54 medals, and badminton, with 31 medals.

Historic Performances in Glasgow

India's boxing contingent emerged as the standout performer at Glasgow 2026, winning a record 10 medals, including seven gold medals, the country's best-ever boxing performance at the Commonwealth Games.

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu claimed India's first gold medal of the Games, securing her third consecutive Commonwealth title.

Judoka Asmita Dey became India's first-ever Commonwealth Games gold medallist in judo, while Harsh Singh also clinched a historic gold for the country.

Athletics also produced notable milestones, with Tejaswin Shankar becoming India's first Commonwealth Games decathlon medallist and Gulveer Singh emerging as the first Indian athlete to win two athletics medals at a single Commonwealth Games edition.

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra added another Commonwealth medal to his career by winning silver in the men's javelin throw.

Para Athletes Create History

India's para athletes produced their most successful Commonwealth Games campaign, winning seven medals in para athletics and contributing significantly to the country's overall tally.

The contingent registered three double-podium finishes, including the men's T47 100m, where Dilip Mahadu Gavitwon gold while Mohammed Basil secured silver.

The Glasgow campaign marked India's strongest-ever performance in Commonwealth Games para sports, ending a two-decade wait for medals in para athletics.

New Delhi 2010 Remains India's Best Campaign

India's most successful Commonwealth Games performance continues to be New Delhi 2010, where the host nation won 101 medals, including 39 gold, to finish second in the overall standings.

While India secured 61 medals at Birmingham 2022, the reduced sports programme in Glasgow—excluding disciplines such as wrestling, badminton, hockey and table tennis—resulted in a comparatively smaller medal haul.

A book borrowed from an Australian library more than 150 years ago has finally found its way back to the shelves, surprising librarians and history enthusiasts alike. The rare volume, originally issued in the 19th century, resurfaced during renovation work at a private residence, where it had remained hidden for generations.

The book, titled Antiquities of Athens, was returned to the Kiama Library in New South Wales after being discovered inside a sealed fireplace during home restoration.

Hidden Inside an Old Fireplace

According to reports, the book was found inside a tea chest concealed within a disused fireplace while renovation work was underway at an old house.

Although the volume showed signs of age, including water damage and worn pages, library staff were able to identify it as one of their historic collections. The discovery prompted its immediate return to the library, ending a disappearance that lasted for nearly a century and a half.

Late Fine Estimated at ₹19 Lakh

The extraordinary return also sparked curiosity over the overdue fine the borrower would have faced.

Library Manager Michelle Hudson said that if the library's historic lending rules had been applied, the overdue charge would have reached around 28,000 Australian dollars, equivalent to nearly ₹19 lakh.

The calculation was based on the library's original regulations, under which borrowers were charged three pence per week for overdue books. Over more than 150 years, the amount accumulated into a remarkable figure.

Hudson noted that while libraries occasionally receive books returned after several decades, she had never encountered one coming back after nearly 150 years.

Borrower's Identity Remains a Mystery

Despite the book's return, one question remains unanswered: who borrowed it?

Library officials said the lending records from the 1870s no longer exist, making it impossible to identify the original borrower or determine why the book was never returned.

No ownership markings or personal details were found inside the volume that could help trace its history, leaving much of its journey a mystery.

Glimpse Into Historic Library Rules

The incident has also revived interest in the strict borrowing policies followed by libraries during the 19th century.

Historical records indicate that readers could not borrow another book until previously issued books had been returned and any outstanding dues were cleared.

Some regulations were particularly unusual by modern standards. A household could borrow up to three books only if at least six family members were literate, while people believed to be intoxicated were not permitted to borrow books.

To Be Preserved as a Historical Artifact

Rather than returning the book to circulation, Kiama Library has decided to preserve it as part of its local history collection.

The volume will now be displayed as a historical artifact, allowing visitors to learn about its remarkable journey through time. Library officials said the decision was taken to ensure the rare book is protected for future generations instead of risking another long disappearance.

The unexpected return highlights how forgotten objects can sometimes preserve remarkable stories, offering a rare glimpse into both local history and the evolution of public libraries.

Speaking on the BBC's Stumped podcast, Greenberg said there are currently no formal plans to move an Ashes-related Test to India, but emphasised that cricket administrators should remain open to innovative ideas that can expand the global reach of the game.

According to Greenberg, India represents one of the most significant markets for international cricket, and there is growing scope to deliver premium cricket content outside the traditional bilateral calendar.

"We should consider every opportunity," Greenberg said, adding that Cricket Australia enjoys strong working relationships with both the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He noted that any future discussions would depend on scheduling and the broader international calendar rather than commercial interest alone.

While stressing that no proposal has been finalised, Greenberg suggested that exhibition-style Test matches or special events in India could become viable in the years ahead if logistical challenges are resolved.

One of the biggest obstacles, however, remains the increasingly crowded international cricket calendar.

Greenberg acknowledged that fitting additional marquee fixtures into an already packed schedule is becoming increasingly difficult. He remarked that international cricket has reached a stage where the demand for elite contests exceeds the number of available playing days.

"There are only 365 days in a year," he said, noting that administrators would ideally want "another month or two" to accommodate the volume of cricket that boards and broadcasters would like to stage.

The comments come at a time when cricket boards across the world are searching for new revenue streams while balancing bilateral commitments, ICC tournaments and expanding domestic franchise leagues.

Cricket Australia has already taken a major step towards increasing its presence in India. The opening fixture of this year's Big Bash League (BBL) is scheduled to be played at Chennai's M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, marking the first time a BBL match will be staged on Indian soil.

The opening game will feature Melbourne Renegades against Perth Scorchers and is expected to serve as a test case for taking Australian domestic cricket to overseas markets.

Industry observers believe that if the initiative proves successful, it could encourage cricket boards to explore similar international exhibition events, including high-profile Test matches involving traditional rivals.

The financial importance of the Indian market has also become increasingly evident for other cricket boards.

The ECB's recent financial report highlighted that series involving India remain among its most commercially valuable international fixtures. Broadcasting revenues and sponsorship linked to India's tours contribute significantly to the board's financial stability.

Despite hosting both the men's and women's Ashes in 2027, the ECB has projected financial pressure in the coming years, underlining the growing importance of commercially attractive international contests.

Meanwhile, preparations continue for the next chapter of the historic Ashes rivalry.

Australia and England are scheduled to meet in England for the next Ashes series in 2027. Before that, the two teams will contest a special day-night Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in March 2027 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first-ever Test match.

The commemorative pink-ball fixture will not count towards the Ashes series but is expected to be one of the landmark events in international cricket.

Although the prospect of an Australia-England Test in India remains at an exploratory stage, Greenberg's comments reflect the changing landscape of global cricket, where commercial expansion, broadcast audiences and international partnerships are increasingly influencing how and where elite cricket is played.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent five-day visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand has marked a renewed strategic focus on India's Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific vision, signalling New Delhi's intent to deepen partnerships in the region amid rapidly evolving global geopolitical dynamics.

The visit, held from July 6 to July 11, came after a series of engagements in Europe, West Asia and the Indian Ocean, highlighting the government's effort to balance India's diplomatic outreach across multiple strategic theatres.

Renewed Focus on the Indo-Pacific

The East Asia tour followed Prime Minister Modi's visit to Malaysia earlier this year and Japanese Prime Minister's visit to India in early July, creating momentum for stronger cooperation with key Indo-Pacific partners.

The three-nation visit was among the longest overseas engagements undertaken by the Prime Minister in recent years and focused on expanding cooperation in defence, trade, technology, maritime security and regional connectivity.

Addressing members of the Indian diaspora in Auckland, Modi described the visit as historic, noting that it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades.

Global Context Shapes India's Strategy

The renewed emphasis on the Indo-Pacific comes against the backdrop of significant geopolitical changes over the past few years.

The COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Gaza crisis and tensions in the Gulf region have reshaped global strategic priorities. At the same time, shifts in United States foreign policy and Washington's evolving approach towards China have prompted countries across Asia to reassess their regional security and economic strategies.

Growing concerns over the security of critical maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca, have further reinforced the importance of diversified partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

Defence and Economic Cooperation in Focus

India's engagements with Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand placed significant emphasis on strengthening defence cooperation, maritime security, resilient supply chains and economic collaboration.

The tour reflected New Delhi's broader objective of working closely with like-minded democracies to promote a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific while expanding investment, technology partnerships and people-to-people ties.

Officials view stronger regional cooperation as essential to ensuring stability across one of the world's most strategically significant maritime regions.

Act East Policy Continues to Evolve

Launched more than a decade ago, India's Act East Policy has gradually expanded beyond economic engagement to include strategic, security and connectivity initiatives across Southeast Asia, East Asia and the Pacific.

The latest diplomatic outreach indicates that the Indo-Pacific remains central to India's foreign policy despite competing global crises, with New Delhi seeking to strengthen its role as a key regional stakeholder through sustained diplomatic and strategic engagement.

Analysts believe the visit reflects India's continued effort to balance economic interests, regional security concerns and strategic partnerships in an increasingly complex international environment.

A political row has erupted over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent community event in Melbourne after organisers rejected allegations by the Congress that attendees were paid to participate in the programme.

The controversy began after Congress leader Pawan Khera shared a video on social media claiming that thousands of people were allegedly hired and flown in through chartered flights to welcome Prime Minister Modi during the 'Melbourne Meets Modi' event held on July 9.

Responding to the allegations, the event organisers categorically denied any payment to attendees and described the claims as "false" and an insult to the Indian-Australian community. According to media reports, they have written to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi seeking a public apology and withdrawal of the statements.

Organisers Defend The Event

The organisers said the large-scale event, attended by nearly 30,000 members of the Indian diaspora, was funded independently by community organisations and volunteers. They clarified that neither the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Government of India nor the Australian Government financed the programme.

Addressing the issue of chartered flights, organisers said the travel arrangements were the result of months of planning, coordination and logistical preparation. They stated that volunteers spent significant time managing bookings, passenger coordination and administrative work, while many also contributed financially and sacrificed personal and professional commitments to ensure the event's success.

According to the organisers, arranging chartered flights was intended only to facilitate travel for community members and should not be interpreted as evidence that attendees were paid.

Congress Questions Crowd Mobilisation

The Congress has alleged that a large number of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) were brought to the event through paid arrangements. Pawan Khera claimed on social media that between 25,000 and 30,000 people attended after being financially compensated.

The organisers, however, rejected the allegation, stating that while political criticism of Prime Minister Modi or the BJP is part of democratic discourse, questioning the voluntary participation of the Indian diaspora unfairly undermines the community's independence and commitment.

PM Modi Addresses Indian Community

Prime Minister Modi addressed the Indian community in Melbourne during his two-day visit to Australia on July 9 and 10. During the programme, he praised India's growing global stature in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, defence and technology.

Referring to Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister said India's defence capabilities had attracted worldwide attention, adding that the operation demonstrated the country's increasing military strength and credibility.

The event also witnessed a symbolic moment when attendees switched on their mobile phone flashlights at Modi's request as a gesture of appreciation for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

India-Australia Partnership Expanded

During the visit, India and Australia announced agreements covering defence cooperation, trade, critical minerals, energy and space collaboration.

Among the key announcements was the decision to jointly develop a Critical Minerals Corridor, aimed at strengthening supply chains for strategic resources. The two countries also agreed to establish a space tracking terminal on Australia's Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which will support India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.

The visit further strengthened the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Australia, with both governments reaffirming cooperation across economic, security and emerging technology sectors.

While the political controversy surrounding the Melbourne event continues, the organisers have maintained that the gathering reflected genuine participation by the Indian diaspora and have called for the allegations against the community to be withdrawn.

India has stepped up its strategic engagement across the Indo-Pacific by deepening partnerships with South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, signalling a broader effort to strengthen regional cooperation, maritime security and resilient supply chains. The latest diplomatic outreach, spanning April to July, reflects New Delhi’s evolving Indo-Pacific strategy built around what analysts describe as a modern interpretation of Kautilya’s Mandala theory.

The diplomatic momentum included high-level bilateral engagements with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, followed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s multi-nation tour of Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. Together, these visits underline India’s focus on building a network of strategic partnerships with like-minded maritime democracies amid growing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific.

Expanding the Indo-Pacific Vision

India’s approach seeks to reinforce cooperation through initiatives such as the Act East Policy, the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the MAHASAGAR vision. Rather than forming an exclusive military bloc, New Delhi aims to promote a rules-based, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific while expanding its strategic and economic space.

The strategy comes at a time when China’s growing regional influence has complicated India's neighbourhood dynamics, prompting New Delhi to strengthen ties with countries across the wider maritime region.

Indonesia Emerges as a Key Maritime Partner

Indonesia featured prominently during Prime Minister Modi’s recent diplomatic tour. Recognised as a strategic gateway between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Indonesia controls vital maritime routes through the Malacca, Sunda and Lombok Straits.

During the visit, India and Indonesia signed multiple agreements covering defence, maritime cooperation and trade. Indonesia agreed to acquire BrahMos cruise missiles and became the first international customer for India’s Astra Mk-1 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile system.

The two countries also expanded cooperation between their maritime agencies, strengthened information-sharing mechanisms and explored collaboration in developing Indonesia’s Sabang Port, located near one of the world's busiest shipping corridors.

Economic cooperation also advanced through agreements on rare-earth supply chains, steel manufacturing partnerships, digital payment connectivity and local currency settlement mechanisms.

Australia and New Zealand Deepen Strategic Cooperation

In Australia, the two countries concluded a Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation, alongside a Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap and agreements covering coast guard coordination and civil nuclear cooperation.

The partnership is expected to enhance defence interoperability, maritime surveillance and long-term energy cooperation, including Australian uranium exports to India.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to New Zealand, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades, resulted in the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. Both nations adopted a Roadmap to 2030 and agreed to work towards doubling bilateral trade over the coming years.

The discussions also covered logistics, hydrography, maritime mapping and broader regional cooperation across the Indo-Pacific.

Japan and South Korea Reinforce Economic Security

Earlier diplomatic engagements with Japan and South Korea laid the foundation for the broader regional outreach.

India and Japan strengthened cooperation in defence technology, economic security, critical minerals and resilient supply chains. The two countries also agreed on their first defence co-development project involving naval communication systems.

Meanwhile, South Korea and India focused on expanding cooperation in advanced technologies, semiconductors and supply chain resilience, reflecting growing convergence on emerging economic and security priorities.

Strategic Balance in the Indo-Pacific

Analysts believe India’s expanding network of partnerships reflects an effort to create a balanced regional architecture rather than an alliance directed against any single country. By strengthening defence cooperation, promoting resilient supply chains and supporting freedom of navigation, India is seeking to reinforce stability across the Indo-Pacific.

The approach also supports greater diversification of trade, technology partnerships and maritime connectivity while encouraging cooperation among countries that share similar interests in maintaining an open and rules-based regional order.

As geopolitical competition intensifies across the Indo-Pacific, New Delhi’s recent diplomatic engagements indicate a long-term strategy centred on strategic partnerships, economic resilience and maritime cooperation, positioning India as an increasingly influential stakeholder in the region’s evolving security and economic landscape.

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.

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.

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday visited the historic Prambanan Temple, Indonesia's largest Hindu temple complex, where he joined Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to inaugurate a major conservation and restoration project. The visit highlighted the deep civilisational and cultural ties between India and Indonesia, while also reinforcing their growing strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.

During his visit to the nearly 1,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage temple complex, the Prime Minister participated in the temple aarti, received blessings from priests and toured the restored sections of the monument. Speaking at the event, Modi described the visit as a personal and spiritual milestone, saying he had been fortunate throughout his public life to remain connected with Lord Shiva through several sacred sites.

"I have always had the opportunity to be associated with Lord Shiva in one form or another. After Somnath, Kashi Vishwanath, Kedarnath Dham and Mahakal Temple in Ujjain, it is my good fortune to contribute to the development of the Prambanan Temple," the Prime Minister said.

Ancient Temple Gets New Conservation Push

Prambanan, built in the ninth century, is Indonesia's largest Hindu temple complex and is dedicated to the Trimurti—Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. The towering 47-metre Shiva Temple dominates the complex, while intricate stone carvings depict episodes from the Ramayana and other Hindu scriptures.

The restoration project inaugurated by the two leaders is aimed at preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of one of Southeast Asia's most significant Hindu monuments. Modi later shared aerial visuals of the temple complex, calling it a symbol of the enduring cultural links between India and Indonesia.

India-Indonesia Partnership Expands

The temple visit came a day after India and Indonesia announced a series of strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

Among the major outcomes was a defence agreement worth approximately ₹5,500 crore, under which Indonesia will procure BrahMos and Astra missile systems from India for the first time. India will also assist Indonesia in developing the strategically important Sabang Port, located near the Strait of Malacca, one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes.

President Prabowo Subianto praised Modi's leadership, saying the Indian Prime Minister had made a significant contribution to elevating relations between the two countries.

Digital India and Economic Progress

Addressing members of the Indian community and local dignitaries, Modi highlighted India's rapid digital transformation and economic growth.

He said nearly half of the world's digital transactions now take place in India, with over 750 million digital payments being made every month. The Prime Minister also pointed to improvements in higher education rankings, semiconductor manufacturing, connectivity and infrastructure as examples of India's development journey.

According to Modi, India's growth is being driven by the vision of inclusive development under the principle of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas."

Focus on Indo-Pacific Cooperation

The Prime Minister also underlined Indonesia's strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region, noting its close geographical proximity to India's Great Nicobar Island.

He said India is expanding its maritime capabilities by developing new ports, shipping routes and logistics infrastructure, adding that Indonesia remains one of India's closest and most trusted partners in the region.

The visit comes at a time when geopolitical attention remains focused on the Indo-Pacific due to China's expanding military and maritime activities in the South China Sea. India and Indonesia have increasingly strengthened cooperation on maritime security, regional stability and economic connectivity as part of their broader strategic partnership.

Australia Visit Next

Following the conclusion of his Indonesia visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to travel to Melbourne, Australia, for a three-day official visit from July 8 to 10 at the invitation of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

During the visit, Modi will hold bilateral talks with Australian leaders, meet Governor-General Sam Mostyn, participate in the India-Australia CEO Forum, interact with business leaders, and address the Indian diaspora, with discussions expected to focus on trade, critical minerals, defence cooperation and Indo-Pacific security.