Australian Companies Should Expand Presence In India, Says PM Modi

On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged Australian companies to expand their presence in India, highlighting opportunities in manufacturing, clean energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, fintech, infrastructure and the digital economy.

PM Modi made the remarks while addressing business leaders at the India-Australia CEO Forum in Melbourne, where he was joined by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The two leaders also interacted with CEOs from both countries before addressing the gathering.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Prime Minister showcased India’s strong economic performance, business-friendly reforms and growing innovation ecosystem. He said India’s vast market, combined with Australia’s expertise, offered significant potential for mutually beneficial partnerships.

The MEA said PM Modi invited Australian businesses to become partners in India’s long-term growth as the two countries work to strengthen trade and investment ties.

The India-Australia CEO Forum, established in 2012 and revived in 2023 by PM Modi and Albanese, meets every year to offer recommendations to both governments on expanding economic cooperation. It also conducts activities throughout the year to promote commercial engagement between the two countries.

During the Economic Roadmap Business Reception held alongside the forum, PM Modi welcomed business leaders from India and Australia, saying their participation reflected the shared ambition of both nations. He described India and Australia as natural and trusted partners and called for greater collaboration in areas such as clean energy, infrastructure, artificial intelligence and education to further deepen the bilateral economic partnership.