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Foreign Minister Jaishankar inaugurates Indian Consulate in Brisbane, Queensland
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia will lead the new consulate’s efforts to strengthen ties in economic, educational, and research domains.
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Jaishankar during the inauguration. / Image - X/DrSJaishankar
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated the country’s new consulate in Brisbane, marking a significant advancement in India-Australia relations. This consulate, the first in Queensland, joins India’s existing diplomatic missions in Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney.
At the inauguration, Jaishankar lauded the progress in India-Australia ties, emphasizing the impact of initiatives like the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), which has facilitated trade and investment opportunities across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy. The inauguration was welcomed by Queensland Governor Jeannette Young.
“Today is a landmark moment and certainly a milestone in our increasingly strong bilateral relationship. It is an acknowledgment as well, of the growing importance of the state of Queensland, which holds such an important place in many ways in our burgeoning ties,”Jaishankar said.
Jaishankar underscored the significance of Queensland’s Indian diaspora, nearly 100,000 strong, and the consulate’s role in supporting the Indian community, students, and businesses across the state. “I also want to tell the Indian community and people of Indian origin resident in Australia that your consular needs would be addressed in a timely manner and with much greater convenience,” he further added.
“We have today in Australia, a diaspora which is coming close, I think, to a million people and certainly making its contribution to the vibrant and multicultural society here. I'm very pleased to see that the community has earned great respect for itself in this country,” he added.
“We are very confident that the consulate will also support cultural activities and other endeavors which will allow the Indian community here to be in touch with its roots and preserve its culture, heritage and traditions,” Jaishankar noted.
Delighted to formally inaugurate new Consulate General of India in Brisbane today.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 4, 2024
It will contribute to strengthening India’s ties with Queensland state, promoting trade, fostering educational linkages and serving the diaspora.
Thank H.E Dr. Jeannette Young, Governor of… pic.twitter.com/4f6Bw6uZoM
With India as Queensland’s second-largest export market, the state plays a crucial role in the countries’ bilateral trade, which saw a 41 percent growth in 2022, with India now Australia’s sixth-largest trading partner.
Jaishankar also highlighted his commitment to fostering bilateral collaboration, noting that this visit marked his fifth trip to Australia in three years, reflecting the growing engagement between India and Australia.
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