Jaishankar highlights India’s tech growth & global ties in Brisbane address

Brisbane, November 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

On November 4, 2024, during his visit to Australia, India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, addressed the Indian community in Brisbane, emphasizing India’s technological advancement, its global partnerships, and the balance between tradition and progress. The address came as part of a broader diplomatic mission to strengthen the ties between Australia and India, during which Dr. Jaishankar visited various cities from November 3 to November 7, 2024.

Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the dynamic transformation taking place in India, driven by technology. He pointed out how technological tools like QR codes for payments have now reached everyday life, even among street vendors, marking a significant change in India's digital landscape. According to him, this widespread adoption of technology is not only embraced by academics, researchers, and businesses but is also a part of the everyday experience of ordinary Indians. The minister underscored that the possibilities for India's growth, facilitated by this technological embrace, are immense.

In his speech, Dr. Jaishankar also emphasized the importance of nurturing India’s rich heritage while embracing modern advancements. Referring to India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, he discussed the need for technology and tradition to go hand in hand. India, he explained, is a civilizational state with a deep cultural history. It is important to preserve and promote this culture, especially in an era of globalization where traditions are at risk of being overshadowed by industrialization. He mentioned initiatives like "One District, One Product," which encourages local production and pride in regional products and skills. Another example he highlighted was the Vishwakarma initiative, designed to support Indian craftspeople, ensuring that traditional crafts continue to thrive despite industrial competition.

India’s External Affairs Minister also spoke about the growing role of India on the global stage. Dr. Jaishankar expressed optimism about India’s future, stressing that India’s growth will be in tandem with the world’s progress. He mentioned that there is a strong global sentiment supporting India’s rise and that India must harness this goodwill to further its international position. This outlook was particularly evident in India’s foreign policy approach, which seeks to build collaborations in areas such as education, research, and business with countries across the globe.

A key focus of Dr. Jaishankar’s address was the rise of global capability centers in India. He shared that over 1,800 global capability centers have been set up by foreign companies in India, generating more than $150 billion in business, primarily through exports. These centers are a testament to India’s growing role in the global workforce. As technology like AI, electric mobility, and chip manufacturing gain prominence, the need for a global workforce is becoming more evident. India’s skilled workforce, combined with its growing technological infrastructure, makes the country an attractive partner for international businesses.

Dr. Jaishankar further emphasized that India’s global image is also shaped by the hardworking, family-oriented nature of its people, which makes Indians highly valued in workplaces worldwide. He spoke about the importance of cultivating this image and leveraging diplomacy to enhance India’s position in the global labour market.

On the regional front, Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the collaboration between India and Australia in areas like disaster response. He recalled how Indian assistance was delivered to Papua New Guinea during a recent mudslide, thanks to joint efforts with Australia. This cooperation, he said, underscores the importance of regional safety and working for the global good.

The minister reiterated that these efforts are not mere rhetoric but involve concrete actions on the ground that improve the safety and prosperity of the region.

Dr. Jaishankar wrapped up his address by underscoring the growing relationship between India and Australia. His visit, he stated, was a step toward deepening bilateral ties in areas such as politics, defense, business, and cultural exchanges. The inauguration of a new Consulate General in Brisbane is one such initiative aimed at further strengthening the partnership. The minister expressed confidence that the relationship between India and Australia, particularly in the fields of education and research, would continue to grow and flourish.

Indian External Affairs Minister’s visit and his address to the Indian community in Brisbane highlighted India’s evolving role in the world, the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, and the growing importance of global partnerships in shaping the future. Through such engagements, India seeks not only to bolster its ties with Australia but also to affirm its commitment to global cooperation and progress.