NEW DELHI, JULY 09, 2026: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the 3rd India-Australia Annual Summit hosted by the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese MP, in Melbourne on 9 July 2026. On arrival at Government House, Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by Prime Minister Albanese and accorded a ceremonial welcome.
The Prime Ministers held one-on-one discussions followed by delegation-level talks. They welcomed the successful completion of six years of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The two leaders reviewed the significant progress achieved across the full spectrum of bilateral relations and discussed ways to further deepen cooperation in priority areas, including trade and investment, defence and security, critical minerals, cyber and emerging technologies, space, civil nuclear, clean energy, education, and people-to-people ties.
The two Prime Ministers noted the expanding economic partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to early finalisation of an ambitious, balanced and mutually beneficial Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA). They welcomed the outcomes of the Australia-India CEOs Forum and the discussions of the Economic Business Roadmap event held earlier in the day and encouraged businesses from both countries to explore new investment opportunities in priority sectors. They also highlighted the continued expansion of education cooperation between the two countries. In this context, they noted with satisfaction the growing presence of Australian universities in India and the contribution of educational partnerships towards building a future-ready workforce, fostering innovation, and strengthening people-to-people ties.
The leaders appreciated the vibrant Indian diaspora in Australia for its significant contribution to Australian society and for serving as a living bridge between the two countries. They also noted the growing cultural exchanges that continue to deepen mutual understanding and welcomed the voluntary return to India of several cultural artefacts held by Australian institutions. These artefacts of Tamil Nadu origin – a stone sculpture of sacred Nandi, a metal Trident with the image of Bhadrakali, and a six-headed Karthikeya statue in stone – will be transported back to India in due course.
The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the multifaceted India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments and reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
On the occasion of the visit, the two sides finalised MoUs/ agreements in the fields of maritime security, civil nuclear energy, skill development, emerging technologies, science and technology and filmmaking. In addition, they also concluded bilateral documents in the fields of defence and security, energy security, education, repatriation of cultural properties, solar energy, and traditional knowledge. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Albanese for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation.
About the Author
