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A bilateral meeting between India and Australia was held here today to discuss the bilateral co-operation between the two countries. The visiting Australian Minister of Defence, Mr. Kevin Andrews and the Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju discussed intelligence sharing, combating international terrorism, cyber security and better working relations for border and maritime security. They also touched upon the issues of stability of Asia Pacific region, security of sea lanes of communication.

The two leaders underscored the growing depth of the Australia-India strategic partnership and building on converging interests, shared values and common democratic institutions in today’s meeting. They also discussed bilateral collaboration across the security spectrum, including in counter terrorism, cyber policy and maritime security.

The two leaders also discussed the follow-up of the financial action task force in Brisbane, Australia in June 2015 and addressed deficiencies in implementation of the recommendations with regard to terror financing. Shri Rijiju also raised the issue of sponsored terrorism by some neighboring countries and global efforts to curtail terror funding. The visiting Defence Minister also discussed the situation in the middle-east and in Afghanistan and expressed his concern. They also agreed for enhanced co-operation in the areas of mutual interest of both the countries.

The visiting Australian Defence Minister is attending the Second Australia-India Defence Minister’s dialogue. The Australian delegation included the High Commissioner and Defence Attaches of Australia in India. Both the countries agreed to further enhance bilateral assistance in the areas of mutual co-operation and extend the co-operation to newer areas.

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