India’s EAM Dr Jaishankar attends 7th Indian Ocean Conference

Perth, February 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The External Affairs Minister of India (EAM), Dr S Jaishankar, received a warm welcome upon his arrival in Perth to participate in the 7th Indian Ocean Conference held from February 9-10. The conference aimed to address key issues concerning the Indian Ocean region.

During his visit, Dr Jaishankar held significant meetings, including a discussion with FM Senator Penny Wong of Australia, focusing on the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Australia. The discussions also touched upon matters related to the IndoPacific, the situation in West Asia, and other regional and global topics of mutual interest.

Joined by esteemed colleagues including President Ranil Wickremesinghe and FM Vivian Balakrishnan, Dr Jaishankar participated in the conference's opening ceremony, welcoming ministerial counterparts from across the Indian Ocean region.

On the second day of the conference, Dr Jaishankar engaged in a morning discussion with FM Senator Penny Wong, emphasizing India-Australia ties, Indian Ocean architecture, and shared interests in the IndoPacific region.

Dr Jaishankar also paid a visit to Sailani Avenue in Perth, named after Nain Singh Sailani, an Indian-origin soldier honored in Australia. During his visit, he met with veterans and Indian community leaders, acknowledging their contributions to strengthening the friendship between Australia and India.

Further strengthening regional ties, Dr Jaishankar met with FM Maneesh Gobin of Mauritius, highlighting positive progress in their bilateral relationship and expressing optimism for deeper cooperation.

In a bid to intensify ties with Western Australia, Dr Jaishankar engaged with Parliamentarians Zaneta Mascarenhas, Varun Ghosh, and Dr. Jagadish Krishnan of Australia, appreciating their insights and perspectives.

Addressing the Indian community in Perth, Dr Jaishankar expressed gratitude for their efforts in bolstering the friendship between Australia and India, recognizing their vital role in fostering stronger bonds.

Additionally, Dr Jaishankar met with Premier Roger Cook of Western Australia, acknowledging his support for hosting the 7th Indian Ocean Conference and his commitment to building robust India-Australia ties, further enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations.