Radio Brisvaani
Melbourne, January 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Members of the Indian community came together in Melbourne to bid a warm farewell to High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, at an event organised by the Indian Australian Diaspora Foundation (IADF). The gathering reflected the strong connect Baglay built with the diaspora during his tenure, with community leaders highlighting his accessibility and emphasis on people-to-people ties.
The farewell was convened by the IADF under the leadership of its director, Jay Shah, continuing the foundation’s efforts to create platforms that bring diaspora communities into closer interaction with diplomatic, political and civic leadership. Organisers said such initiatives have strengthened dialogue and cooperation at the grassroots level.
The event also welcomed Anish Rajan, the newly appointed Consul General of India in Melbourne, who attended as a special guest. In his address, Rajan reflected on his earlier professional association with Baglay, describing him as a mentor whose guidance during the formative years of his diplomatic career helped shape his approach to public service.
Reflecting on his time in Australia, Baglay, who assumed office in January 2024, described his posting as personally fulfilling. He noted that while India–Australia relations had advanced significantly, there remained further scope for growth. He emphasised that bilateral ties are increasingly driven not only by government-to-government engagement but also by everyday connections between communities, universities, businesses and families across both countries.
The farewell address included a Hindi poem by noted poet Dr Harivansh Rai Bachchan, which added a reflective tone to the evening, touching on themes of purpose, perseverance and direction in public life.
In a vote of thanks, organisers expressed appreciation for Baglay’s calm and direct engagement with the Indian diaspora and his consistent support for community initiatives. The remarks also acknowledged Jay Shah’s role in convening the event, recognised businessperson Jaideep Sharma for assistance behind the scenes, and thanked the Hindu Council of Australia, along with Vijay Dhiman and Harshad Kale, for their support.
The farewell coincided with Baglay’s ongoing official engagements in Canberra, including a formal call on Governor-General Sam Mostyn at Government House, as noted in the Governor-General’s official programme.
The High Commissioner held a warm farewell meeting with Special Envoy for Indian Ocean Affairs Tim Watts, extending heartfelt appreciation for his guidance and support both in his current role, and his previous role as the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The High Commissioner also called on Minister for Skills and Training Andrew for a warm farewell meeting. The High Commissioner thanked Minister for his continued support to the vibrant Indian community in Australia and his efforts in deepening India-Australia skilling cooperation. The Minister appreciated the High Commissioner’s active efforts in strengthening bilateral relations and extended best wishes for his future endeavours.
Community leaders observed that while farewells are a routine part of diplomatic service, the gathering highlighted the growing role of diaspora organisations as informal bridges in the India–Australia relationship, fostering networks, dialogue and cultural connections across the country.
