India and Australia on Thursday issued a strong joint condemnation of terrorism, urging the international community to act collectively and without double standards in confronting violent extremism. The statement came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne during the second leg of Modi’s three‑nation tour.
Both leaders reaffirmed commitments to counter‑terrorism cooperation, defence ties, and maritime security, while reviewing ongoing collaboration across energy, regional stability, and strategic partnerships. They also discussed the rapidly evolving situation in West Asia, with Modi reiterating India’s desire for sustained peace in the region amid rising tensions.
Briefing reporters after the meeting, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said both countries shared deep concerns over recent terror incidents that have affected citizens in India and Australia. He noted that the leaders exchanged perspectives on regional and multilateral issues, emphasising the need for coordinated global responses to terrorism and violent extremism.
Misri added that the discussions also covered broader Indo‑Pacific security challenges, including infrastructure resilience, emerging technologies, cybersecurity, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and supply‑chain stability. Both leaders reaffirmed support for the Quad, identifying it as a key platform to address regional challenges and uphold a free, open, and inclusive Indo‑Pacific.
Modi also invited Australian firms to invest in India, stressing the importance of accelerating bilateral economic ties. He pushed for the early finalisation of the proposed India–Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), saying it would significantly boost trade and investment flows between the two nations.
The meeting underscored growing strategic alignment between India and Australia as both countries navigate global security threats and seek stronger cooperation across defence, economy, and regional diplomacy.