PM Modi’s Australia Visit Strengthens Defence Partnership: Australian Report

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Australia has delivered substantial outcomes, particularly in the defence and security sectors, according to a report by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute’s analysis platform, The Strategist.

The report noted that, amid growing concerns over dependence on the United States to counter China, Australia and India are looking to strengthen cooperation.

During the visit, PM Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held the third Australia-India Annual Summit, reviewing progress in trade, investment, critical minerals, clean energy, technology, defence, education, mobility, science, innovation, culture and people-to-people ties. Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

The Ministry of External Affairs said the summit concluded with several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering defence, maritime security, energy, including nuclear cooperation, critical technology, education and skilling.

The report highlighted the Joint Declaration on Defence as a key outcome, noting that it aims to enhance interoperability, information sharing and the complexity of joint military exercises. It also emphasises strengthening regional security and resolving disputes peacefully in accordance with international law.

The report described the commitment to consult on defence-related developments in the Indo-Pacific as a significant shift in bilateral ties, reflecting deeper strategic cooperation than in previous years.

Another major outcome was progress in civil nuclear energy cooperation, including uranium exports to India.

Australia had previously restricted uranium sales to countries with strong non-proliferation commitments, while India’s non-signatory status to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty had remained a hurdle.

The report added that despite recent progress, both countries need to deepen cooperation further, particularly in responding jointly to economic and strategic coercion in the Indo-Pacific.

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