Hyderabad, March 11: Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan and

Australian High Commissioner for India Mr. Barry Robert O’ Farrel on

Thursday discussed on further strengthening of India-Australia relations

with special focus on Telangana State.

The Australian High Commissioner, who visited Raj Bhavan, here, has

called on the Governor, who is at Raj Nivas, Puducherry, through virtual

mode and interacted about trade, business, education and other issues.

The Governor during her interaction with the visiting dignitary and his

delegation emphasised on promoting medical tourism, educational and

student exchange programmes between the Australia and Telangana, and

called for joint organising of cultural programmes to strengthen the bond.

She also stressed on the participation of alumni professionals, who are

staying in Australia and studied earlier in Telangana State, for the

strengthening of universities in Telangana.

“Australia and India have strong cultural relations and they must be

promoted in a big way by organising joint cultural programmes in

Australia and Telangana. Students and artistes exchange programmes

need to be promoted,” Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan added.

The Governor also highlighted the promotion of Pochampally sarees,

Hyderabad Biryani and Telangana handicrafts during her interaction.

In his interaction, Mr Barry O’Farrel stated that Indian Diaspora are

playing crucial role in many sectors in Australia and their contribution is

worthwhile.

He said that the further strengthening of India-Australia relations was

vital for the development of the two countries and emphasised on the

comprehensive strategic partnership.

He appreciated the Indian doctors and scientific community for their

services during the Covid-19 pandemic and for their efforts in vaccine

development in Australia and India.

“We have a strong bond and relations and there are increased

opportunities for mutual investments and for forging a stronger bond

between the two nations,” he added.

The Australian delegation has extended an invitation to the Governor to

visit Australia.

The Australian High Commissioner was accompanied by Ms Sarah Kirlew,

Consul General of Australia in Chennai, Mr. Jay Sangani, First Secretary

Political Section, Australian High Commission, New Delhi, and Ms. Svetha

Venkatram, Government Relations Manager, Australian Consulate.

Regional Passport Officer Mr Dasari Balaiah was also present, while

Secretary to Governor K. Surendra Mohan introduced the guests and

coordinated the virtual event and hosted the lunch for the delegation at the Raj Bhavan on behalf of the Governor.(PHN)