Jaishankar meets Australian Deputy PM Marles to strengthen bilateral ties, discuss regional affairs

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday engaged in discussions with Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles regarding the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and other issues. The meeting took place during the second India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue. “A very good meeting with DPM and Defence Minister @RichardMarlesMP of Australia. Spoke about recent developments that influence the Indo-Pacific strategic scenario. Also exchanged views on West Asia,” Jaishankar posted on X. “And yes, we discussed yesterday’s match. Congratulations Australia!” he added.

A very good meeting with DPM and Defence Minister @RichardMarlesMP of Australia.

Spoke about recent developments that influence the Indo-Pacific strategic scenario. Also exchanged views on West Asia.

And yes, we discussed yesterday’s match. Congratulations Australia! pic.twitter.com/nbASZyZTnb

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 20, 2023

Earlier, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed satisfaction with the progress made in various areas during his meeting with the Australian Deputy Prime Minister. Singh highlighted the opportunity to further enhance the defence partnership between India and Australia. Singh said, “During our earlier discussion, we were able to identify areas and initiatives where our two countries could collaborate. I am happy to note the progress already made in many of these areas. Today’s meeting will give us an opportunity to reaffirm our resolve to further deepen our defence partnership,” reported ANI. In his opening remarks, Marles said, “It’s great to be back in India again and to be here at such an auspicious time for the World Cup. I congratulate India for the way it hosted the World Cup and the way in which India has played. And we feel lucky with the result last night. But it has been just a great expression of the friendship between Australia and India.” With inputs from agencies