Generations of people`s representatives have made Australia one of the great nations of the world today. From the vast stretch of territory to the abundance of resources, Nature has been generous to you.

But, it is the people of Australia, who have made Australia what it is today: A beacon of democracy and rule of law; a nation that willingly leads the search of a lost aircraft; one of the most prosperous nations in the world;among the best in human development index; a nation with some of the best cities in the world; some of the most productive farms and mines; some of its best universities and research centres; an advanced technology base; and, a nation with great sporting skills.

Australia evokes images not just of immense beauty, but also of a great quality of life. Today, its cities are alive with richness of this world's diversity. And, it is home to 450,000 Indians, who are as proud to be part of Australia as they are of their Indian heritage.

Honorable Members,

There was a time when, for many of us, Australia was a distant land on the southern edge of the world.

Today, the world sees Australia to be at the heart of the Asia Pacific and Indian Ocean region. This dynamic region holds the key to this world`s future; and Australia is at its cross-currents. And, as Australia has become more engaged in this part of the world, we welcome its growing role in driving this region`s prosperity and shaping its security.

Because we, in India, seek the same future for this world.

We also see Australia as a vital partner in India`s quest for progress and prosperity. There are few countries in the world where we see so much synergy as we do in Australia.

India a nation of more than a billion seeking development; Australia a developed country of a few million people and vast resource. Since the turn of this century, India has been the second fastest growing economy in the world. Millions have lifted themselves out of poverty into a new life of possibilities.

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