PM Modi describes his recent visit as “hat-trick” reflecting growing India-Australia relations

Melbourne,July 09
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that 21st-century India is working towards the goal of becoming a developed nation. Emphasising the country’s aspirations, the Prime Minister remarked that today’s India is a nation that believes in growing more and achieving more.
Addressing a community event in Melbourne today, Mr. Modi recalled meeting members of the Indian diaspora earlier in Sydney and said he had been looking forward to interacting with the people of Melbourne as well.
The Prime Minister said that when he first visited Australia in 2014, it was after a gap of 28 years since the visit of an Indian Prime Minister. Mr Modi said that his current visit is his third to Australia in the last 12 years, describing it as a “hat-trick”, which, he said, reflects the growing strength and new heights of India-Australia relations.
Highlighting the close ties between the two countries, Mr Modi noted that Ahmedabad, home to the world’s largest cricket stadium, and Melbourne, renowned for its iconic cricket ground, symbolise the shared sporting and cultural connection between India and Australia. He said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has won the hearts of the Indian community through his warmth and goodwill.
Mr. Modi began his address by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land and paid respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. Referring to the enthusiastic response from the audience, he described the event as “houseful” and a “blockbuster”.
Addressing the gathering, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the energy witnessed at the event reflects the strength of the Australia-India partnership. He said the enthusiasm and dynamism of the people of both countries continue to drive positivity and promise in bilateral relations.