The discussions between the two ministers covered wide range of issues including forthcoming meeting of Joint Commission meetings between Australia and India between 3rd and 7th May, 2010. The constitution of a CEOs Forum by both the sides also figured during the discussions.
Shri Sharma also discussed the issue of early completion of the Commonwealth Games infrastructure projects undertaken by the Australian companies. Both the Ministers expressed satisfaction at the on-going preparation for Commonwealth Games including the comprehensive security arrangements. Mr. Smith expressed satisfaction for the security arrangements made during the Australian team's recent participation in shooting and hockey events. The Ministers reviewed various aspects of strategic partnerships between the two countries which were recently decided during Australian PM's visit to India in November, 2009 including greater cooperation in the field of anti-terrorism initiative in all its forms. Other issues which prominently came up for discussion were expansion of trade, promotion of investment and joint ventures in the field of prospecting and exploration of oil and natural gas.
The Commerce and Industry Minister highlighted the need for taking appropriate measures by the Australian Government to safeguard interest of the Indian students who were lured by un-accredited educational institutions in Australia with false promises and are now affected due to closure of these colleges. The measures taken by the Australian Government to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian students were outlined by the Australian Minister. He assured of every possible step that Australian Government will take to safeguard their interest and reduce their hardships such affected Indian students.
India - Australia discussed economic and strategic partnership
Special Correspondent - 2010-03-02 17:31
New Delhi: Shri Anand Sharma, Minister of Commerce and Industry during his meeting with Mr. Stephen Smith, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs who called on him here today has stated that while the bilateral trade is increasing satisfactorily; there are promising opportunities for Investments and joint ventures between the companies of the two countries in the mining and infrastructure sectors.