Melbourne [Australia], June 1 (ANI): Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Richard Marles will undertake a high-level visit to the Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, and Indonesia from June 2 to 5, according to an official release from the Australian Defence government.
The tour aims to strengthen diplomatic and defence partnerships across South and Southeast Asia, reflecting Australia’s commitment to deepening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. During his visits to the Maldives and Sri Lanka, Marles will discuss Australia’s ongoing support for both nations’ sovereign capability development.
The visit to India marks the fifth anniversary of the Australia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a foundational framework supporting the shared vision for security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
In Indonesia, Marles will meet his counterpart to reaffirm mutual commitment to a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Ahead of his tour, Marles said, “Australia values our relationships with neighbours in the Indo-Pacific. Our deepening cooperation is at the heart of Australia’s approach to ensure the Indo-Pacific remains open, inclusive, and resilient.” He added, “I look forward to meeting leaders and welcome productive discussions on how we can work together to shape a peaceful, secure, and prosperous region that is respectful of sovereignty.”
On May 23, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated Richard Marles on his reappointment as Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence. In a post on X, Singh expressed eagerness to continue strengthening bilateral defence ties under the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He wrote, “Heartiest congratulations to my friend @RichardMarlesMP on his reappointment as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence for Australia. Looking forward to continuing our close cooperation to further strengthen bilateral defence ties.”
Marles’ reappointment follows the recent election victory of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Several senior ministers, including Marles, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, Treasurer Jim Chalmers, Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, and Education Minister Jason Clare, have retained their portfolios.
(ANI)
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