AIR : Jun 04, 2020, 01:45 PM
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said India is committed to strengthening its relations with Australia. He said it is not only important for the two nations but also for the Indo-Pacific region and the whole world. Addressing the first ever India-Australia Virtual Summit with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Mr Modi said the role of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will be more important in this period of global pandemic.Mr. Modi said this is the perfect time to further strengthen relations between India & Australia. There are endless opportunities to strengthen our friendship. He added, it also brings with it challenges to turn this potential into reality and how bilateral relations become a factor of stability for the region.He said his government has taken the decision to view this COVID-19 crisis as an opportunity. He added that a process of comprehensive reforms has been initiated in almost all areas and its result will be seen at the ground level very soon.The Prime Minister expressed condolences on behalf of the people of India to the COVID-19 affected people in Australia. He also expressed gratitude for the way Australia has taken care of the Indian community and students during the pandemic.In his address, the Australian Prime Minister thanked Mr Modi for his leadership and for playing a constructive role during the pandemic. He said Australia is committed to an open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific and India's role in the region will be critical in the years ahead. He added that the maritime relationship between India and Australia is the platform for so many other things between both the countries.He commended India on its leadership on taking Chair of WHO's executive board. He said this is a very important time to be chairing that board and exuded confidence that India's leadership will be critical in dealing with difficult problems globally particularly in the health area.