New Delhi: India's Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan is set to visit Australia from March 4 to March 7, 2025. This visit paves way for the growing defence partnership between India and Australia, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defence.

During his visit, General Chauhan will meet top officials from the Australian Department of Defence and military leaders, including Australia's Chief of Defence Force, General Admiral David Johnston, Secretary of Defence Greg Moriarty, and the heads of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

He will also visit the Force Command Headquarters to review Australia’s operational command system and find ways for both countries to work together in military operations. In addition, he will interact with the Australian Fleet Commander and the Joint Operations Commander. 

As part of India’s efforts to enhance military training and education, General Chauhan will also visit the Australian Defence College and speak to senior officers about security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. He will further lead a round-table discussion at the Lowy Institute, a leading Australian think tank.

The Defence Ministry said that this visit focus on boosting a commitment of both countries to expanding military and diplomatic cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. It also aims to enhance security collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.

Meanwhile, on February 26, the Australian government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, announced a plan to invest USD16 million in the Australia-India Trade and Investment Accelerator Fund. This initiative is to help Australian businesses enter the fast-growing Indian market.

Prime Minister Albanese said that India is a key partner for Australia’s economic growth. He said that this roadmap will help businesses in both countries expand, boosting trade, job opportunities, and overall economic prosperity. With India expected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, this initiative will focus on key growth areas and strengthen economic ties.

Furthermore, Australia will invest another USD4 million to expand the Maitri  or FRIENDSHIP Grants program. This program promotes stronger business, cultural, and people-to-people connections between the two nations. Australia’s free trade agreement with India has already saved Australian companies hundreds of millions of dollars, with tariff reductions expected to reach USD 2 billion by the end of the year.

Discussions are also underway for a new trade agreement that will provide even more opportunities for Australian businesses in India’s vast market of 1.4 billion people. The roadmap for this initiative was developed after extensive consultations, with over 400 discussions held in both countries.