New Delhi [India], June 4 (ANI): Embracing a beloved Indian tradition, Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles kicked off his day in the national capital with an early morning run followed by a cup of chai at a local market—a gesture reflecting his appreciation for Indian culture and warmth.
“A morning run at Nehru Park followed by chai at Malcha Marg—an active start to Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles MP’s day in Delhi. Look forward to a busy but productive day ahead,” Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, shared in a post on X.
Marles himself took to social media to post, “First port of call in India is a run and a chai from the local market!” His stop at the neighborhood chai stall offered a charming start to what is expected to be a high-stakes diplomatic visit.
The Australian Defence Minister arrived in Delhi late Tuesday night as part of a broader regional tour aimed at reinforcing ties with key Indo-Pacific partners. His itinerary includes visits to the Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, and Indonesia from June 2–5, during which he will engage in several high-level meetings.
Philip Green also marked the occasion with a note on the significance of the visit, saying, “Welcome to India, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles. Five years ago tomorrow, Australia and India signed our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Your visit to India so early in your second term reflects the strength and continuity of our enduring relationship.”
Later in the day, Marles is scheduled to meet Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss pressing regional and global security issues and to explore avenues for deepening defence cooperation.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed the meeting via X, stating, “Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will meet Australian Deputy Prime Minister & Defence Minister Richard Marles MP in New Delhi today, to discuss regional and global security issues and deepen Defence Cooperation. Defence and security are key pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both nations committed to peace, stability, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.”
Marles’ informal yet symbolic morning outing, coupled with his packed diplomatic agenda, highlights the strong people-to-people and strategic ties that continue to define the growing partnership between India and Australia. (ANI)
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