Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said Australia and India have always shared common interests including keeping the Indo-Pacific a free, open and inclusive area.

Addressing a gathering of Australians of Indian origin and NRIs based in the country in Sydney, PM Modi recalled his first visit to Down Under and listed the many things that connected the two countries. He noted that India and Australia are keen cricketing nations and shared many more close links from MasterChef and yoga. PM Modi spoke about the sadness many cricket-loving Indians felt on the death of Australian spin wizard Shane Warne.

The PM noted that the Indo-Pacific region faces a number of challenges such as the security of sea lanes of communication, terrorism, climate change and piracy. He said these issues can be addressed through shared efforts.

He said that both he and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wanted to take their ties much closer. PM Modi said he was confident that he would Indo-Australian relations to the next level. There was large scope to identify new areas of complementing each other and increase cooperation between the two nations. This would also happen in closer defence and security ties to ensure open and free communication in Indo-Pacific.

He highlighted the fact that there was high degree of mutual trust between the two countries that had translated into increased co-operation on defence and security matters, which was already visible with the navies of the two countries participating in joint naval exercises.

He stated India’s position in the world as the force of global good. He said that India always had a helping hand whenever there was a disaster. He hailed India as the mother of democracy and as a bright spot for the world’s economy.

Prime Minister Modi and his Australian counterpart renamed the Sydney suburb ‘Little India’ during the mega community event at the Qudos Bank Arena  in Sydney Olympic Park. He also announced that a new consulate will be opened in Brisbane soon.

PM Modi was visiting Australia after nine years after 2014. The organisers of the Tuesday bash, the Indian Australian Diaspora Foundation (IADF), had anticipated a sizeable turnout and were not disappointed by the multitudes welcoming the PM. Special buses had been organized by Modi supporters from Brisbane and Canberra.

Indians comprise 2.8% of the Australian population, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

He also added that the the Indo-Pacific region faces a number of challenges such as security of  sea lanes of communication , terrorism, climate change and piracy. He said that these issues can be addressed through shared efforts. He also added that he could not be satisfied easily.

He said that Prime minister Albanese was same in this regard. He said he was confident that he would Indo-Australian relations to the next level. There was large scope to identify new areas of complementariness and increase cooperation between the two nations. PM Modi said he wants to take India’s relationship with the Australia to the next level which include closer defence and security ties to ensure open and free communication in Indo-Pacific. He highlighted the fact that there was high degree of mutual trust between the two countries that had translated into increased co-operation on defence and security matters.

As a result of which the navies of the two countries are participating in joint naval exercises.

During his official visit to Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted a special lunch where the star ingredient showcased the unique culinary heritage of the region. The lunch, held in Port Moresby, featured the exotic fruit, ‘pitaya’ or dragon fruit, as a prominent ingredient in the menu, highlighting the growing importance of international culinary exchanges and cultural diplomacy.

The lunch, was attended by the leaders attending the third India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea . Dragon fruit, which is native to Central America but is now widely cultivated in various parts of the world, including Papua New Guinea, was the focal point of the menu.

The menu showcased a range of dishes that incorporated the vibrant and flavorful dragon fruit. From refreshing salads to innovative desserts, each dish was meticulously prepared to highlight the fruit’s unique texture and taste. The inclusion of dragon fruit in the menu not only added a visual appeal but also symbolized the diversity and richness of the culinary traditions in both India and Papua New Guinea.

Prime Minister Modi, known for his emphasis on cultural diplomacy, acknowledged the importance of food as a powerful medium for strengthening bonds between nations. He highlighted the significance of showcasing the diverse cuisines and culinary traditions as a means to deepen understanding and appreciation of different cultures.

The inclusion of dragon fruit in the lunch menu also reflected the growing popularity of this exotic fruit in various global cuisines. Dragon fruit has gained recognition for its nutritional value, vibrant colour, and distinct flavour, making it a favourite ingredient among chefs and food enthusiasts. The special lunch hosted by Prime Minister Modi in Papua New Guinea served as a platform to celebrate the fusion of Indian and Papua New Guinean culinary traditions. It provided an opportunity for the dignitaries and officials to engage in cultural exchange and foster a deeper understanding of each other’s heritage.

The Delhi High Court has issued notice in a defamation case related to the screening of the documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots India: The Modi Question by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The notice was issued in a petition filed by a Gujarat-based NGO which said the documentary portrayed the RSS, BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a defamatory and misleading manner.

The documentary, which was aired by the BBC early this year, examined the role of various individuals and organizations during the communal violence that shook Gujarat in 2002. It alleged that several politicians, including the petitioner, played a divisive role and incited violence during the riots. The documentary also claimed that the state government at the time turned a blind eye to the atrocities committed against religious minorities.

The petitioner contended that the documentary had damaged his reputation and was defamatory in nature. He argued that the content presented by the BBC was biased and aimed at tarnishing his image without providing a fair opportunity for him to present his side of the story. The petitioner sought damages and requested the court to direct the BBC to issue a public apology and withdraw the documentary.

Taking cognizance of the matter, the Delhi High Court has issued notice to the representatives from the BBC to appear before it and respond to the allegations of defamation. The court’s decision reflects its commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and ensuring that all parties involved have an opportunity to present their perspectives.

This case highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and protection against defamation. While the media plays a crucial role in bringing forth important issues and holding those in power accountable, it is also essential to ensure that individuals are not wrongly defamed or subjected to unfair portrayal.

The notice issued by the Delhi High Court to the BBC indicates that the court is taking the matter seriously and will examine the allegations of defamation made by the petitioner. It also sends a message that responsible journalism should be based on thorough research, unbiased reporting, and a fair representation of all viewpoints.