“India and Australia are two countries with shared interests and shared values. We are both pluralist democracies. We are both global in our outlook, but also closely integrated into the Asian region. Our economic relationship is expanding rapidly. We have a shared desire to enhance and maintain peace, stability and prosperity in Asia. We both value multilateral institutions and recognise the need to reform and renovate them. Our people-to-people links are broad-based and growing.
“To give expression to the expansion and dynamism of our bilateral ties, we have agreed to take the relationship to the level of a strategic partnership.” Joint statement from the Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh and the Prime Minister of Australia Kevin Rudd, 12 November 2009.
“The Australia Government is committed to building a greater understanding between our two peoples and Australians’ understanding of India, its culture, its history and place in the world.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, 1 September 2009.
The University of Melbourne established the Australia India Institute in October 2008. In 2009 funding for the Institute was provided by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. Both the University of New South Wales and La Trobe University were also founding partners.
The Institute will provide leadership in policy, business briefings, research and postgraduate training, for the benefit of India and Australia and the broader Asia Pacific region. The Institute will attract leading international and Australian experts on India and build on the University’s expertise and relationships.
A strong partnership with business, government and academic institutions in Australia and India will ensure benefits for all. Prominent business and community leaders in Australia and India will assist the University in developing the strategic vision for the Australia India Institute to develop a regional perspective which will enhance understanding and cooperation between Australia and India on trade, scientific, political, cultural and social issues.
