Rajnath Singh speaks to Australian counterpart, discusses Covid-19 fightback
"India remains fully committed to the implementation of the comprehensive strategic partnership with Australia. Both sides look forward to convening the Ministerial 2+2 Dialogue at the earliest opportunity," Rajnath Singh said.
FollowDefence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday had a telephonic conversation with his Australian counterpart Peter Dutton, wherein the two leaders discussed a range of issues pertaining to Covid-19 and bilateral defence ties among others.Â
In a series of tweets, Singh informed, "Spoke to Australian Minister for Defence, Mr Peter Dutton about the measures taken by both the countries to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. India and Australia share a warm and people to people contact underpinned by a strategic partnership."
During a virtual summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison in June last year, the two countries elevated their bilateral strategic partnership to a level of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership based on mutual understanding, trust, common interests and the shared values of democracy and rule of law.Â
The comprehensive strategic partnership was in line with New Delhi's increasing engagement in the Indo-Pacific region through her Indo-Pacific vision and Canberra's Indo-Pacific approach.Â
"India remains fully committed to the implementation of the comprehensive strategic partnership with Australia. Both sides look forward to convening the Ministerial 2+2 Dialogue at the earliest opportunity," Singh said in another tweet.
The two countries also share the vision of an open, free, rules-based Indo-Pacific region supported by inclusive global and regional institutions that promote prosperous, stable and sovereign states on the basis of shared interests.Â
Both ministers also discussed the steps being taken by their respective countries in arresting the spread of the pandemic. He also thanked the Australian armed forces for the support rendered to New Delhi in its fight against the Covid-19.
"It is heartening to note that the Australian Armed forces have wholeheartedly supported India in its fight against COVID-19," Singh said.Â
Australia had sent a consignment of 60 oxygen concentrators, 1056 ventilators and other medical supplies to India.
