India and Australia Finalise Uranium Deal, Launch Defence and Tech Pact
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne on [date] for the third India-Australia annual summit, with discussions covering defence, security, critical technology, and energy cooperation. The two leaders finalised administrative arrangements for the long-term supply of uranium from Australia to India, operationalising a civil nuclear agreement signed in 2014.
The summit produced 18 outcomes, including a joint declaration on defence and security cooperation aimed at improving interoperability of forces and defence industrial collaboration, and a maritime security collaboration roadmap. The leaders also launched the Partnership for Cyber, Critical Technologies, Supply Chains (PACTS) to bolster national and regional security, enhance supply chain resilience, and foster collaboration in critical technologies and cybersecurity.
In a media statement, PM Modi said PACTS would facilitate critical minerals cooperation, which is vital for strategic security and clean energy transition. He added that both sides would work on a critical mineral corridor. Modi also emphasised the importance of the nuclear agreement, stating it would pave the way for uranium supply from Australia to India and boost clean energy objectives.
India and Australia had concluded fuel supply arrangements in 2015, but operationalisation was delayed due to disagreements on safeguards. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that after nearly two years of intense discussions, both sides resolved the issues to their mutual satisfaction, including reporting procedures and protocols for supply, handling, and accounting of material.
The joint statement reiterated Australia's support for India's membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and called for reform of the United Nations Security Council, with Australia backing India's candidacy for a permanent seat. The leaders also condemned terrorism in all forms.
On education, Modi welcomed the opening of Australian university campuses in India, adding a new chapter to knowledge partnership. The leaders agreed to enhance student, professional, and tourist exchanges. Albanese assured that Indian students are welcomed and valued in Australia, addressing concerns over visa processing delays.
Modi described India and Australia as natural and trusted partners in times of global uncertainties, highlighting their shared characteristics as vibrant democracies, multicultural societies, and significant ocean powers. The two sides also agreed to fast-track negotiations for a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement and a bilateral investment treaty.
