India and Australia Strengthen Ties at 15th Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue
On November 5, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was warmly received by Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong at the Australian Parliament House in Canberra. This meeting marked the 15th India-Australia Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue.
Welcome Ceremony and Dialogue
The visit began with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, followed by discussions between the two ministers. The Australian foreign ministry highlighted the strong strategic, economic, and community ties between the two nations, noting that nearly one million Australians have Indian heritage.
Shared Vision for the Indo-Pacific
Both countries share a vision for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. As they approach the fifth year of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2025, the dialogue provided an opportunity to review progress and plan for future collaboration.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Ministers Jaishankar and Wong focused on advancing cooperation in science and technology, clean energy, trade and investment, and enhancing defense and maritime security. The dialogue emphasized India’s role as a key partner for Australia, especially as India is set to become the world’s third-largest economy by the end of the decade.
Raisina Down Under
The leaders will also participate in ‘Raisina Down Under,’ the Australian version of India’s Raisina Dialogue, on November 5-6. This conference addresses significant geopolitical and geo-economic challenges.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Jaishankar’s visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss mutual interests. He also engaged with Australian Parliamentarians and guests, fostering further collaboration. This meeting, their 19th, is expected to boost the India-Australia relationship.
Doubts Revealed
EAM -: EAM stands for External Affairs Minister. In India, this is the person responsible for managing the country’s relationships with other countries.
Jaishankar -: Jaishankar refers to S Jaishankar, who is the current External Affairs Minister of India. He helps India communicate and work with other countries.
Australian FM -: Australian FM stands for Australian Foreign Minister. This is the person in Australia who handles the country’s international relations.
Penny Wong -: Penny Wong is the Foreign Minister of Australia. She works on Australia’s relationships with other countries, like India.
15th India-Australia Dialogue -: This is the 15th meeting between India and Australia where they discuss important topics to improve their relationship and work together better.
Welcome to Country -: Welcome to Country is a traditional ceremony by Indigenous Australians to welcome visitors to their land. It shows respect for the original people of Australia.
Smoking Ceremony -: A Smoking Ceremony is an ancient custom among Indigenous Australians. It involves burning native plants to cleanse and protect people and places.
Indo-Pacific -: Indo-Pacific is a region that includes the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It is important for trade and security for many countries, including India and Australia.
Raisina Down Under -: Raisina Down Under is an event where leaders discuss global challenges. It is similar to the Raisina Dialogue held in India, but this one is in Australia.