PM Modi lands in Australia on second leg of foreign visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived in Australia on the second leg of his three-nation tour during which he will hold talks with his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese and interact with the Indian diaspora.
“Landed in Melbourne, Australia. This visit will add vigour to the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Modi said in a post on X soon after his arrival.
Modi, who was warmly received at the airport by senior officials of the Australian Government and was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour, said he was looking forward to his talks with his Australian counterpart. “I will also have the opportunity to interact with the Indian diaspora, which is an important pillar of our partnership,” he said.
During his visit, PM Modi will co-chair the 3rd Annual Summit with PM Albanese and engage with various stakeholders to further deepen the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership across all sectors of mutual interest, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
Upon his arrival at the hotel in Melbourne, PM Modi received a rousing welcome from the Indian community members, with chants of “Modi-Modi” and “Vande Mataram”.
“The weather in Melbourne may be cold but the warmth of the welcome from the Indian community was truly unforgettable. Their affection and unwavering bond with India continue to be a source of immense joy and pride,” he said in another post on X.
He witnessed performances, including a special fusion between the Australian didgeridoo, an ancient wind instrument developed by indigenous Australians, and the Indian tabla, a 10-piece symphony orchestra presentation of ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ and a Kathak performance.
“Witnessed a truly exceptional musical performance featuring Australia’s ancient Didgeridoo and India’s Tabla. The harmony between these two timeless instruments beautifully reflected the deep cultural connect between our two nations,” Modi said. He praised Ron Murray and Sam Evans for their dedication to preserving and celebrating musical traditions. Modi said the Australian-India Orchestra’s soulful presentation of ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ was wonderful.
