Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at an event in Melbourne attended by business leaders and government officials from both countries, drew attention by describing India–Australia relations in the language of cricket.
Modi said India’s strong economic growth, policy reforms, digital transformation and a rapidly expanding innovation ecosystem are creating fresh opportunities for Australian companies. He pointed to potential investments across manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, urban development, aviation, artificial intelligence, food processing and the digital economy, and urged Australian investors to look at long-term prospects in India.
Highlighting people-to-people ties as a key strength, Modi noted that the Indian diaspora contributes significantly to Australia’s social and economic progress. He also said Australia remains a preferred destination for Indian students, and that the opening of Australian university campuses in India marks a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
On education and skills, he said deeper collaboration in higher education, research, innovation and skill development would help talent from both countries access future global opportunities. He added that upcoming major sporting events, including the Olympics and Commonwealth Games in the two countries, could expand sports cooperation and create investment opportunities in sports infrastructure.
Using a cricket metaphor, Modi said cricket has become the “language” of India–Australia diplomacy: the goals resemble an ODI, the outcomes are as fast as T20, and the partnership is as deep and long-lasting as a Test match. During the event, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remarked that “one plus one becomes two and stronger,” to which Modi replied, “when one and one stand side by side, it becomes eleven,” drawing laughter from the audience.
