Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong landed in New Delhi to engage in the second India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, marking a significant step in bilateral relations between the two nations. Greeted with warmth upon arrival at the Air Force Station, Palam, Wong's visit underscores the pivotal discussions awaiting the ministers involved.

Announcing her arrival, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi expressed eagerness for the dialogue, highlighting its diverse agenda covering multiple dimensions of the India-Australia partnership. Concurrently, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles had already touched down in India in anticipation of the 2+2 dialogue.

Collaborating alongside their Indian counterparts, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Wong and Marles are set to co-chair the dialogue. Emphasizing the paramount importance of India in Australia's security landscape, Marles characterized the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as a series of tangible actions benefiting the Indo-Pacific region.

Highlighting pivotal developments such as an Indian submarine visit to Perth and Australia's hosting of Exercise Malabar, Marles articulated the deepening defense ties and growing proximity in security partnerships between the two nations, echoing sentiments echoed by the Australian Foreign Ministry.

Wong echoed these sentiments, asserting that the India-Australia partnership is fundamental to the stability and prosperity of the shared region. Stressing Australia's commitment to closer collaboration with India, she emphasized the mutual benefits in the Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific region.

"Increasing defense and security cooperation alongside a broader partnership with India underscores Australia's commitment to an open, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific," Wong reiterated.

Both ministers' affirmations underscored the trajectory of growing ties between India and Australia, reflecting a shared commitment to bolstering regional stability and prosperity.

India and Australia Set for 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue Today

India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue Set to Strengthen Bilateral Ties