Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visits BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir; hails India-Australia friendship

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with Australia Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong. Pic/PTI

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday visited the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Sydney. Rajnath Singh was warmly welcomed by children singing devotional hymns and chants at the sacred place. The Union Minister also performed aarti at the temple and sought blessings.

As reported by news agency ANI, while addressing the Indian diaspora in Sydney, Rajnath Singh stated, "I arrived here the day before yesterday, and yesterday I had fruitful meetings with the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia. The discussions were very productive and meaningful."

Rajnath Singh also said that he was deeply touched by the community's respect for both India and Australia, noting the children's performance of the national anthems of both countries.

Hailing the mutual respect between the two nations, the Union Minister said, "I was deeply moved to see the people gathered here showing respect for both the Indian and Australian national anthems, which were beautifully sung by children. This gesture reflects your large-heartedness and the spirit of mutual respect between our two nations," as cited by ANI.

Highlighting India's growing global stature, Rajnath Singh said that during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the Australian leader praised India's rapid pace of development.

Rajnath Singh added, "Yesterday, during my meeting with the Australian Prime Minister, he praised India's rapid pace of development and progress. Today, India holds a special place at international forums; our views are being heard and respected across the world. We have earned this recognition through our consistent growth and achievements," as cited by news agency ANI.

Reflecting on India's transformation, the Union Defence Minister added that the nation has overcome past challenges and is now moving forward with confidence.

"There was a time when India was considered a poor nation struggling with unemployment. But now, the country is progressing rapidly and moving forward with confidence and positivity," he asserted, highlighting the positive progression of the country.

Earlier during the day in Sydney, Rajnath Singh also held the India-Australia Defence Industry Round Table.

The round table was chaired by Australia's Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil, along with Rajnath Singh.

Both sides discussed strengthening cooperation in the defence sector and emphasised expanding collaboration between their industries and armed forces. Singh is on an official two-day visit to Sydney, as per ANI.

(With inputs from ANI)