India and Australia Strengthen Ties in Fourth Secretary-Level Talks
On Monday, India and Australia held their fourth 2+2 Secretary-level Consultations in New Delhi. The discussions covered a wide range of topics including political, strategic, defence, and security issues, as well as regional and global matters of mutual interest.
Key Participants
The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. The Australian side was represented by Greg Moriarty, Secretary of Australia’s Department of Defence, and Jan Adams, Secretary of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Strengthening Partnerships
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Jan Adams, emphasizing the importance of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also met with Greg Moriarty, expressing eagerness to enhance defence cooperation between the two nations.
Building Momentum
Australian High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, highlighted the significance of the meeting in intensifying the security partnership. The relationship between India and Australia was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in June 2020, focusing on mutual understanding and a shared vision for a stable Indo-Pacific region.
Recent Interactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the ASEAN-India Summit in Laos, further strengthening ties between the two countries.
Doubts Revealed
2+2 Secretary-level Consultations -: This is a special meeting where two important officials from each country, one from the defense department and one from the foreign affairs department, come together to discuss important issues. It’s called ‘2+2’ because two officials from each country participate.
Comprehensive Strategic Partnership -: This is a strong and close relationship between two countries where they work together on many important areas like defense, trade, and security. It means they trust each other and want to help each other grow and be safe.
Defence Secretary -: The Defence Secretary is a high-ranking official in the government who is responsible for managing the country’s defense policies and military matters. In India, this person helps make sure the country is safe and secure.
Foreign Secretary -: The Foreign Secretary is a senior official in the government who deals with the country’s relationships with other countries. This person helps make sure India has good friendships and partnerships with other nations.
External Affairs Minister -: The External Affairs Minister is a government leader in charge of India’s foreign relations. This person represents India in international matters and works to maintain good relationships with other countries.
Union Defence Minister -: The Union Defence Minister is a top government official responsible for the defense and security of the country. This person oversees the military and works to protect India from threats.