Melbourne: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday held bilateral talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne during the second leg of his three-nation tour, aimed at further strengthening the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The meeting follows Modi’s arrival in Australia on Wednesday, where he was welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora with a vibrant cultural reception celebrating the shared heritage and growing ties between the two countries.
Among the highlights of the event was a performance by the Australian-India Orchestra, which presented *Maa Tujhe Salaam*. Sharing a video of the performance on X, Modi praised the orchestra, saying the rendition showcased the power of music in bringing people together.
“My compliments to every member of the orchestra for this memorable performance. It also shows the global popularity of Vande Mataram, particularly at a time when we are marking its 150th anniversary,” the Prime Minister wrote.
Modi also attended a unique musical performance that brought together Australia’s traditional didgeridoo and India’s tabla. The performance featured didgeridoo artist Ron Murray and tabla maestro Dr. Sam Evans.
Sharing visuals from the event, Modi said the fusion of the two instruments reflected the deep cultural connection between India and Australia, while commending the artists for preserving and celebrating their respective musical traditions.
The Prime Minister also watched a Kathak performance during the community reception and later met the performers. Posting photographs on X, he expressed happiness at seeing Indian classical dance gaining popularity in Australia.
“Delighted to witness an outstanding Kathak performance during the welcome by the Indian community in Melbourne. Glad to see Indian dances becoming popular across Australia,” he said.
During Modi’s three-day visit, the two leaders are expected to hold wide-ranging discussions covering defence and security cooperation, trade and investment, education, mobility, and people-to-people ties.
Ahead of the visit, Modi had said the Australia leg of his tour would also focus on expanding collaboration in emerging and critical technologies, sports, and sports science.
The Prime Minister arrived in Australia after concluding the Indonesia leg of his three-nation visit. Following his engagements in Australia, Modi will travel to New Zealand for the final stop of the tour.
