Premier Jacinta Allan and Key Leaders Discuss Trade, Education, and Innovation Partnerships.
MELBOURNE, Aug 5: The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) Victoria Chapter hosted its Annual Oration and Gala Dinner, a key event spotlighting the deepening trade and investment opportunities between Australia and India. The evening featured distinguished speakers, including the Premier of Victoria, Hon. Jacinta Allan, who delivered the keynote address.
The event commenced with a ceremonial lamp lighting, followed by opening speeches from Reet Phulwani, AIBC Women in Business Chapter Head, and Rob Thomason, AIBC Victoria President. Notable speakers such as Mr. Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia; Nick Reece, Lord Mayor of Melbourne; Iain Martin, Vice Chancellor of Deakin University; Ravneet Pawha, Vice President - Global Alliances and CEO - South Asia Deakin University; and Tim Thomas, CEO of the Centre for Australia India Relations (CAIR), shared their insights on strengthening bilateral ties.
The evening also featured a Q&A session with Nick Hockley, CEO of Cricket Australia, hosted by Molina Asthana GAICD, National Chair for Sport, Art, and Culture. Attendees had the unique opportunity to view two World Cup trophies won by Australia, which were on display for photographs. The cultural richness of the event was further enhanced by a classical dance performance and the national anthems of both countries, sung by a renowned opera singer.
Speakers emphasized the importance of the Australia-India relationship, particularly the contributions of the growing Indian diaspora, business collaborations, and cricket—a shared passion between the two nations. Premier Jacinta Allan announced her upcoming visit to India in September, her first international trip since taking office, aimed at strengthening ties in key sectors such as trade, education, and innovation.
“This visit is about enhancing our collaboration with one of our most important trade and investment partners, from food and fibre to cutting-edge education technology,” Premier Allan stated.
The gala dinner was well-attended by government officials, politicians, media, sports industry representatives, universities, and businesses, highlighting the mutual commitment to fostering stronger bilateral relations between Victoria and India. The event underscored the significant role of the Australia-India partnership in driving economic growth and cultural exchange.
(G’day India)