Sydney, October 19(Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) celebrated 40 years of promoting trade, investment and commercial cooperation between Australia and India at a special anniversary gala in Sydney on October 16, bringing together business leaders, diplomats and industry representatives.
The celebration was held on the exact date of the council’s establishment in 1986 and marked four decades of efforts to strengthen economic and business connections between the two countries.
According to the AIBC, the Sydney event formed part of its 40th anniversary programme, which began with the Bank of New South Wales Australia-India Address. The gathering attracted business leaders, former chairs of state committees and distinguished guests who came together to recognise the council’s contribution to bilateral engagement.
The Consul General of India, the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR), business partners, sponsors and the keynote speaker were among those attending the celebration.
A panel discussion on the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) examined emerging opportunities for businesses in both countries. Discussions focused on how the agreement has facilitated commercial engagement and opened avenues for stronger trade partnerships.
The Consul General of India emphasised the importance of increasing engagement with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recognising their potential to drive future economic cooperation and business growth.
The AIBC NSW president thanked the sponsors and partners for their support in making the anniversary gala successful. The council also acknowledged renowned Indian chef Sanjeev Kapoor for creating a special culinary experience that brought Indian flavours to the celebrations.
The AIBC National Chair also recognised the contributions of past and present members, whose commitment and leadership have helped build the organisation over the past four decades.
The anniversary comes at a significant time in Australia-India relations, with both countries looking to expand cooperation in trade, investment, technology, education and other areas. The council’s four-decade journey reflects the growing role of business organisations in developing commercial partnerships and strengthening economic links between the two nations.