On Friday, Rajnath Singh arrived at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Sydney, where he was greeted by children singing devotional hymns. This is part of the Defence Minister’s broader two-day visit to Australia, during which India and Australia signed key defence agreements aimed at deepening strategic alignment.
Singh joined the congregation at the Sydney temple for ‘aarti’ and shared warm words with devotees. Observing the children performing both the Indian and Australian national anthems, the minister said the gesture reflected mutual respect and the deep bond between the two nations. "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," Singh stated about the warm welcome, as quoted by ANI.
"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," he also added.
He contrasted India’s past internal struggles with its current dynamism and confidence, calling it a transformation worth celebrating.
Earlier in the day, Singh co-chaired the India-Australia Defence Industry Round Table alongside Australia’s Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil. The meeting emphasized expanding cooperation between industries and armed forces.
His trip also included engagements in Canberra with senior Australian leaders, dialogues on maritime security, and strategic cooperation, says an AP report.