‘We Stand With India’: Australia’s Deputy PM Condoles Pahalgam Victims, Meets Rajnath Singh

Last Updated:June 04, 2025, 13:18 IST

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also thanked Australia for standing by India during Operation Sindoor.

Australia's Deputy Prime Minister met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Delhi on Wednesday. (Pic: PTI)

In a strong show of solidarity, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles on Wednesday extended condolences for the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and reiterated Australia’s firm support to India in its fight against terrorism.

During his bilateral meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, Marles opened his remarks by conveying condolences from the Australian Prime Minister. “I extend condolences from the Australian PM for the victims of Pahalgam… I offer prayers to them… we extend all support to India to combat terrorism," he said.

Marles underscored that Australia stands with India and all countries against terrorism. He appreciated the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that under Modi’s leadership, the bilateral relationship between the two countries has grown stronger. “We certainly see India as a friend and it is on our highest priority," Marles added.

The meeting between the two leaders also focused on the growing defence partnership between the two Indo-Pacific powers. Marles noted that defence ties have become a significant part of the bilateral relationship, with maritime security playing a key role. “We look forward to the annual meeting between the two countries later this year," he said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh thanked Australia for standing by India during Operation Sindoor, India’s cross-border military operation launched in response to recent terror activities. “We thank Australia for supporting us during Op Sindoor," Singh said.

The meeting reflects the growing strategic convergence between New Delhi and Canberra amid shared concerns over regional stability and terrorism, and comes in the wake of the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam that drew widespread international condemnation.

Akash Sharma

Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experience coverin...Read More

Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experience coverin...

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