Radio Brisvaani
Canberra, February 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Building on a productive round of business engagements in Chennai, the Australian India Business Council (AIBC) delegation moved to Mumbai for the second phase of its India mission, participating in high-level discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties.
The Mumbai programme commenced with engagements connected to the Future Economic Corporation Council, organised in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, and the Government of Maharashtra, ahead of the Global Economic Corporation Summit 2026. The meetings focused on emerging economic trends, global trade shifts and the opportunities arising from closer Australia–India collaboration.
During the summit, delegates heard addresses from External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Dr. Jaishankar spoke about the rapidly evolving international landscape, describing a period of transition in which traditional global systems are intersecting with new frameworks shaped by geopolitics, security priorities and the accelerating influence of artificial intelligence on economies worldwide.
Members of the AIBC delegation contributed to two panel discussions alongside representatives of the US-UK Business Council and the UAE Business Council. The conversations explored developments surrounding the India–Australia Free Trade Agreement and examined India’s expanding role as a significant driver of global economic growth.
A notable outcome of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the World Trade Centre in Mumbai. The agreement is expected to pave the way for closer institutional collaboration and enhanced trade linkages between Australian and Indian businesses. Delegates acknowledged the hospitality extended by Dr. Vijay Kalantri, CEO Priya Pansare and their team, and gained insights into the Centre’s operations and international network.
The visit concluded with a reception hosted by Australia’s Consul General in Mumbai, Christian Jack, alongside Deputy Consul General Todd Miller. The event brought together members of Mumbai’s business community and provided an opportunity for informal exchanges, networking and reflection on the delegation’s week-long mission.
The Mumbai engagements capped a successful India tour for the AIBC delegation, reinforcing business partnerships and opening new avenues for cooperation between Australia and India in an increasingly dynamic global economy.
