India-Australia Ties Key in Shifting World Order – Foreign Minister Penny Wong
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has underlined the significance of the India–Australia partnership, saying it has become increasingly important at a time when both the global and regional order are being reshaped. Speaking during her address, Wong said that the challenges of the 21st century—from geopolitical tensions to supply chain security—require close cooperation between countries that share democratic values. She noted that India and Australia have a responsibility to work together to influence these changes positively and responsibly.
India as a Top Diplomatic Priority
Wong highlighted that India continues to be a central focus of Australia’s foreign policy. She pointed out that she has met with India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, more often than with any other counterpart, underscoring the diplomatic priority Canberra places on New Delhi. This, she said, reflects how both countries view each other not just as bilateral partners but also as critical players in shaping regional security and prosperity.
Shared Indo-Pacific Vision and Quad Cooperation
The Australian minister emphasised that both India and Australia share a clear vision for the Indo-Pacific region: one that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous, where sovereignty is respected, and international rules are upheld. Wong said that cooperation within forums like the Quad has further cemented this shared outlook, giving the two countries a platform to align strategies on maritime security, infrastructure development, and technology. She added that the partnership is not only about reacting to global changes but also about proactively setting the agenda for a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
