Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun the official programme of his Melbourne visit after arriving in Australia late on Wednesday, receiving a warm welcome from members of the Indian community as he prepared for a day of high-level talks and public engagements.
Supporters gathered to greet the Prime Minister with Indian flags, music and applause, reflecting the strong community interest surrounding his first visit to Melbourne as Prime Minister.
The visit marks the centrepiece of Modi’s three-nation tour and comes as Australia and India continue to strengthen cooperation across trade, defence, technology, education and critical minerals.
Thursday’s programme includes the Australia-India Annual Leaders’ Summit with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, an Australia-India Economic Roadmap Business Reception, a ceremonial welcome at Government House Victoria, joint statements by the two leaders, a meeting with Governor-General Sam Mostyn and the sold-out Melbourne Meets Modi community event at Marvel Stadium.
Outside the Sofitel Melbourne, where Modi began his official engagements, a small number of Khalistan supporters gathered to protest. Anti-mass migration campaigner Hugo Lennon was also briefly removed by police while protesting outside the hotel. In a post on social media afterwards, Lennon wrote: “I gave India’s prime minister an Aussie (un)welcome.”
Inside the venue, the atmosphere was markedly different as members of the Indian Australian community welcomed the Prime Minister with a series of cultural performances celebrating both countries.
Modi praised a Kathak performance presented during the community welcome.
“Delighted to witness an outstanding Kathak performance during the welcome by the Indian community in Melbourne. Glad to see Indian dances becoming popular across Australia.”
He also highlighted a performance that brought together two traditional instruments from Australia and India.
“Witnessed a truly exceptional musical performance featuring Australia’s ancient Didgeridoo and India’s Tabla. The harmony between these two timeless instruments beautifully reflected the deep cultural connect between our two nations.”
“Compliments to Mr. Ron Murray and Dr. Sam.”
The Indian Prime Minister also commended the Australian-India Orchestra after it performed Maa Tujhe Salaam.
“The Australian-India Orchestra’s soulful presentation of ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ was wonderful. It beautifully demonstrated how music strengthens the bonds between our people. My compliments to every member of the orchestra for this memorable performance.”
In another message posted on X, Modi thanked the Indian community for its reception despite Melbourne’s winter weather.
“The weather in Melbourne may be cold but the warmth of the welcome from the Indian community was truly unforgettable. Their affection and unwavering bond with India continue to be a source of immense joy and pride.”
The visit is expected to produce discussions on expanding economic cooperation, strengthening defence and security ties, increasing investment and advancing collaboration in critical minerals, emerging technologies and education.
The day’s programme will culminate at Marvel Stadium, where tens of thousands of members of Australia’s Indian community are expected to attend the Melbourne Meets Modi event, with Modi and Albanese scheduled to address the gathering.
On Friday, the two Prime Ministers will visit the Melbourne Cricket Ground before Modi concludes his Australian visit and departs for New Zealand.
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