Illustrating New Delhi's own situation vis-a-vis China, he said for nearly 45 years, there was no bloodshed on the India-China border but things changed in 2020.
About the changes underway in India, he said the country did not give the importance that it should have to manufacturing and technology development in the past. That started to change in 2014 with the Modi Government and has gathered steam over a decade. It is supported by vast improvements in infrastructure, innovation, education and skilling.
Ahead of the ‘2+2’ ministerial dialogue between the two countries on Monday, Australia has said its cooperation with India is at the heart of its approach to ensuring the Indo-Pacific remains open, inclusive and resilient.
In the vast expanse of the Indo-Pacific, recent naval drills and diplomatic dialogues have underscored the intricate web of relationships shaping the region’s geopolitical landscape.
The three-day event will include a keynote address by Vice President and a series of addresses by Union ministers and senior officials.
The two countries emphasised that they have a shared interest in a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
The logic behind such a policy stance is two-fold. First, it recognises that a multipolar world order as opposed to a bipolar Cold War two-bloc system is the way the geopolitical cards have fallen.
US Secretary of Defence Austin's visit to India comes a fortnight before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to the US during which defence accords are expected to be signed between the two countries.
The two leaders are slated to hold a bilateral later there. The two leaders will also co-host the FIPIC III Summit, fostering regional cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stresses the need for free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific at Quad Summit
