Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has revealed her upcoming trip to India, marking her first overseas visit since assuming office.
This visit highlights the deepening ties between Victoria and India, a relationship Allan herself initiated nearly 15 years ago as the state’s Minister for Industry and Trade.
“Almost 15 years ago, as Victoria’s Minister for Industry and Trade, I wrote to the then Premier about the need to establish a strategic relationship with India,” Allan recounted. “For two places with so much in common, I was sure there were untapped opportunities we needed to explore.”
In a statement, Allan emphasised the mutual benefits that spurred this initiative, highlighting the transformative journey of the partnership.
“I can’t take full credit for the idea – the benefits of better engagement with India spoke for themselves – but it was the beginning of a new chapter in our partnership. Since then, that partnership has gone from strength to strength.”
Victoria is home to the largest Indian-born community in Australia, with more than a quarter of a million residents contributing to the state’s vibrant mosaic.
“India is an incredibly important part of our community and economy, making valuable and valued contributions to all aspects of our state,” Allan said.
“We are home to the largest Indian-born community in Australia, with more than a quarter of a million mums, dads, and kids, business owners and students, doctors and nurses, artists and engineers – all working hard and raising their families here.”
The Premier’s upcoming visit will focus on enhancing collaboration in key sectors such as food and fibre, education, and innovation.
Allan stressed the importance of these partnerships, stating, “From food and fibre, education and innovation – this trip will strengthen our collaboration with one of our most important trade and investment partners. It will also seek to strengthen our bonds – community to community, person to person.”
Sports and film will also be significant themes during the visit, reflecting the cultural bridges between the two regions.
“Sport is the lifeblood of so many communities both here in Victoria and India. Despite the rivalry between our cricket teams, we know the power of sport to connect people no matter their background, age or gender,” Allan noted.
She also praised India’s film industry, saying, “Films also break down barriers – sharing much about who we are, where we come from and our shared future. India’s vibrant film industry showcases the very best of the colourful cultural stories that India is celebrated for.”
A key focus of the visit will be promoting gender equality and opportunities for women and girls. Allan said, “Ensuring an equal future for women and girls, making sure that everyone is safe, respected, and has every opportunity to pursue their dreams and contribute to society – from sport, education, and the arts.”
The Premier’s visit aims to celebrate existing connections and explore new avenues for collaboration, particularly in education technology, industry innovation, the creative sector, and the wider visitor economy.
“This visit to India will celebrate these connections, and further identify opportunities for collaboration in priority areas including education and education technology, innovation in industry, the creative sector, and the wider visitor economy.”
Premier Allan’s strategic visit to India promises to fortify the dynamic relationship between Victoria and India, paving the way for a prosperous and collaborative future.
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