AUSTRALIA: PM Narendra Modi is “The Boss,” his Australian counterpart, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, said today during a grand community event in Sidney for the Indian diaspora.
In his opening remarks to the large audience, Albanese made a comparison between PM Modi’s popularity and that of well-known musician Bruce Springsteen, who is also referred to by his fans as “The Boss.”
“The last time I saw someone on this stage was Bruce Springsteen, and he did not get the welcome that Prime Minister Modi has gotten.” “Prime Minister Modi is the boss,” said the Australian PM, prompting a grin from PM Modi and cheers and enthusiastic applause from the large crowd gathered at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena.
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi was greeted with a ceremonial welcome, including Vedic chanting, as he reached Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena at Sydney Olympic Park. Several performers presented a cultural programme at the site as well.
PM Modi travelled to Sydney as the third and last stop of his three-nation tour after completing his visit to Papua New Guinea. For the first time in nine years, he is travelling to Australia.
A bilateral meeting between Modi and Albanese is slated for Wednesday. Speaking before PM Modi, Albanese discussed his bilateral meeting with PM Modi that is set to take place following his event.
“It will be our sixth meeting that we’ve had together since I was sworn in as Prime Minister one year ago today. It shows how important the relationship between Australia and India is,” said Albanese, adding that “India will grow to be the third-largest economy in the world. It’s already the most populist country in the world. And it’s an important neighbour in the Indian Ocean that we share. And that is why this is a relationship that we need to invest in.”
“Australia is a better place because of the contribution of the Indian diaspora. India is a key strategic partner. We have a rich friendship; we have a very affectionate sporting rivalry, of course, on the cricket fields of the world, and we will of course contest the championship once again, very shortly. We are both part of a growing and dynamic region, and Prime Minister Modi is a very welcome visitor to our shores,” Albanese continued.
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