India committed to strengthen ties with Australia: Modi in virtual bilateral summit with Scott Morrison

As the entire world is almost in a lockdown mode due to the Covid-19 spread, Modi held the summit with Morrison via video conference.

Speaking about the two countries' ties, Modi said, "India is committed to strengthen its ties with Australia at a vast level at a faster rate. The ties are not only important for the two countries but a need for the Indo-Pacific region and the world."

"But I won't say I am satisfied with the rate at which our ties are strengthening. The parameter of evaluating the rate of the development of our ties should also be ambitious when Australia is led by a leader like you," the PM added praising Morrison.

Modi further said "coordinated" and "collaborative approach" are needed to come out from the pandemic situation.

Referring to the Covid times, he said, "Our government has taken a decision to see this crisis as an opportunity. India has already started reforms in multiple sectors. The results can be felt soon at the ground level."

After the Indian economy was battered by the anti-Covid-19 lockdown, which began on Mar 24 midnight, the Narendra Modi government last month announced a mega package worth Rs. 20 lakh crore with an aim to make the Asian country "self-reliant".

In a major step towards attracting foreign investment, the government increased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limits from 49 per cent to 74 per cent in the defence sector while announcing the package through Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

List of the documents announced/signed during the virtual summit

Joint Statement on a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Republic of India and Australia (Announced)

Joint Declaration on a Shared Vision for Maritime Cooperation in the Indo- Pacific. (Announced)

Framework Arrangement on Cyber and Cyber-Enabled Critical Technology Cooperation.(signed)

MOU on cooperation in the field of mining and processing of Critical and Strategic minerals.(signed)

Arrangement concerning Mutual Logistics Support (MLSA).(signed)

Implementing Arrangement concerning cooperation in Defence Science and Technology to the MoU on Defence Cooperation.(signed)

Memorandum of Understanding on Co-operation in the field of Public Administration and Governance Reforms. (signed)

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Vocational Education and Training.(signed)

Memorandum of Understanding on Water Resources Management. (signed)

(Image Credit: PIB File)