Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan is scheduled to embark on an official visit to Australia from March 4-7. According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, the visit underscores the deepening military and strategic ties between India and Australia.

General Chauhan’s visit will include comprehensive discussions with senior officials from Australia’s Department of Defence and the leadership of the Australian Defence Force. Key engagements are scheduled with Australia’s Chief of Defence Force, General Admiral David Johnston, Secretary of Defence Greg Moriarty, and the Chiefs of the three services. These discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral defence ties and exploring avenues for joint operations.

As part of the visit, General Chauhan will tour the Force Command Headquarters to gain insights into Australia’s operational command structure, fostering greater cooperation in military operations. He will also engage with the Australian Fleet Commander and the Joint Operations Commander, further enhancing military collaboration between the two countries.

In support of India’s commitment to professional military education, General Chauhan will visit the Australian Defence College, where he will address senior officers on strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The CDS will also chair a roundtable discussion at the Lowy Institute, Australia’s leading think tank, focusing on security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

This visit underscores the growing partnership between India and Australia, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, as both nations continue to strengthen diplomatic and military collaboration under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also highlighted India’s crucial role in diversifying trade links and boosting Australia’s prosperity. The two nations are working on a new roadmap to help Australian businesses tap into India’s rapidly growing market, set to become the third-largest economy by 2030.

An extra USD 4 million will be allocated to expand the Maitri Grants program, strengthening business, cultural, and people-to-people ties. Australia’s existing free trade agreement with India has already delivered substantial financial benefits, with tariff savings expected to reach USD 2 billion by year-end, further enhancing the economic partnership.