Australian PM Albanese Offers Condolences to India, Stresses Strong Bilateral Ties in Johannesburg

By A Staff Reporter

Johannesburg, South Africa: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Saturday expressed his condolences to India over two recent tragedies—the terrorist attack near Delhi’s Red Fort and the bus accident in Saudi Arabia that claimed the lives of several Indian Umrah pilgrims. Speaking ahead of a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Albanese conveyed solidarity with the families affected by the incidents.

Calling the loss of lives “deeply tragic,” Albanese offered Australia’s sympathies and noted that such moments highlight the shared global responsibility to counter terrorism and ensure the safety of citizens abroad.

He emphasised that the India–Australia partnership continues to grow in significance, particularly in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment. “We have much to discuss, and our relationship is very strong,” he said, affirming the two nations’ commitment to strengthening their strategic cooperation.

Albanese noted that both leaders would focus on expanding economic engagement, identifying trade and investment as key pillars with substantial potential. “I think the economic relationship we can strengthen further,” he said, adding that defence and security ties are “very important going forward.”

He expressed optimism about the ongoing dialogue and the trajectory of bilateral relations. “I look forward to our discussion today,” Albanese said, signalling continued collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region and across emerging domains such as technology, energy transition and regional stability.