PM Modi is a 'true friend of Australia', says Albanese at Melbourne community event

Melbourne- Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "true friend of Australia" as he welcomed him at a packed Marvel Stadium during the 'Melbourne Meets Modi' event attended by thousands from the Indian community.

Addressing the gathering, Albanese said it was an honour to host Prime Minister Modi, describing him as both a close friend and a valued partner of Australia.

"Prime Minister Modi, my friend, welcome to marvellous Melbourne. As a true friend of Australia and a very dear friend of mine, it is an honour to host you this evening," Albanese said, adding that although the stadium had witnessed many iconic events, none was more significant than the celebration of the Indian community.

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He said the enthusiasm inside the stadium reflected the growing strength of the Australia-India relationship and the optimism shared by the people of both nations.

Reflecting on his visits to India as Prime Minister, Albanese said he had been deeply impressed by the country's culture, vibrancy and the warmth of its people. He also recalled his memorable visit to Ahmedabad in 2023, when Prime Minister Modi hosted him and the two leaders took a ceremonial lap around the Narendra Modi Stadium.

"That was an experience I will never forget," Albanese said, adding that the affection he witnessed between the people of both countries in Gujarat was equally evident at the Melbourne event.

The Australian Prime Minister said the evening celebrated the enduring friendship between two major democracies and multicultural societies, while recognising the contribution of more than one million Australians of Indian origin.

Praising the Indian diaspora, Albanese said the community consistently steps forward during times of crisis and plays a vital role in Australia's development.

"In times of trouble or national crisis, it is the Australian Indian community that is often among the first to volunteer and help fellow Australians," he said.

He also highlighted the community's contribution to key sectors such as healthcare, information technology, small businesses and education, noting that Indian students continue to make a significant contribution to Australia's academic landscape, particularly in the state of Victoria.

Albanese concluded by describing the Indian diaspora as the "living bridge" between the two countries, saying their hard work, aspirations and cultural heritage have helped build a stronger, more prosperous and more diverse Australia.

He added that Australia's multicultural identity has been enriched by the Indian community, whose contribution continues to strengthen ties between Canberra and New Delhi.

With inputs from IANS