India (Commonwealth Union)_ During his Sydney visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena Olympic Park and delivered a powerful speech, shedding light on the significant role played by the Indian diaspora in bolstering the relationship between Australia and India. PM Modi was accompanied by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and both leaders took part in a special event dedicated to honoring and celebrating the thriving Indian community residing in Australia.
Inside the arena, the atmosphere was electrified with the enthusiastic chants of “Modi, Modi,” resonating through the air as the Prime Minister lauded the growing relations between the two countries, attributing their growth to the local Indian diaspora. A notable highlight of the event was the warm embrace and firm handshakes exchanged between the two leaders, symbolizing their strong bonds and solidarity.
During his speech, PM Modi outlined a compelling vision for the India-Australia ties, highlighting that it is more than the commonly used descriptors of “Commonwealth, Cricket, and Curry.” He stated, “Previously, our relationship was said to be defined by 3Cs, but I believe our connection goes beyond these. It is built on mutual trust and mutual respect.” The Prime Minister also mentioned the expanding areas of collaboration between the two countries, noting that disciplines such as yoga, tennis, and movies have emerged as additional bridges between them. Furthermore, he lauded the indispensable role played by the Indian diaspora in promoting this relationship, stating, “The real reason, the real power, lies with all of you Indians who call Australia home.”
PM Modi also shared with the audience the news that a street in the City of Perth had been renamed in honor of Indian-Australian Anzac Private Nain Singh Sailani at his personal request. The Prime Minister stated, “He died fighting for Australia during World War I”. Private Nain Singh Sailani was one of the twelve documented Indian-Australian servicemen who enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I. Tragically, Private Sailani and Private Sarn Singh are the only Indian soldiers known to have died in war while serving with the AIF. Their sacrifices and valor exemplify the profound bond between India and Australia, which breaks boundaries to unite in the face of adversity.
Addressing the Indian diaspora in Sydney, Australia, the PM also announced the forthcoming establishment of a new Indian consulate in Brisbane. He added that the opening of this consulate symbolizes the growing significance of the India-Australia relationship and seeks to further fortify the diplomatic ties between the two countries. With a sense of humor, PM Modi playfully expressed his desire for Australian PM Albanese to savor the exquisite Chatkazz’s ‘Chaat’ and ‘Jalebi’ from Jaipur Sweets in Harris Park, a popular eatery he had heard much about. With a smile, he said, “I have heard that Chatkazz’s ‘Chaat’ and ‘Jalebi’ from Jaipur Sweets in Harris Park are truly delicious. I urge all of you to take my friend, Australian PM Albanese, to experience the culinary delights of that place.”
Prime Minister Modi further reassured the crowd that international organizations recognize India as a leader in the global economy. He also referred to the IMF’s recognition of India as a bright point in the world economy, highlighting the resilience and respect of India’s banking sector in the midst of the challenges faced by banks in other nations. The Prime Minister also discussed the emotional bond between India and Australia, referencing the shared grief of hundreds of Indians following the death of Australian cricket legend Shane Warne. He sympathized, saying, “We felt like we had lost someone very close to us”. Concluding his address, PM Modi expressed his wishes to the diaspora community and noted that the mutual trust and respect between Australia and India will take bilateral relations to new heights.
