DSA Correspondent

DateMarch 7, 2025
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First Visit of Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan to Australia

Indian Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan was hosted by Admiral David Johnston, the Chief of Defence Force of Australia in Canberra. CDS Chauhan has embarked on an official visit to Australia from 04-07 March 2025, reflecting the deepening ties between India and Australia in the realm of defence cooperation.

CDS Anil Chauhan engaged in a wide-ranging discussion with Admiral Johnston, their Secretary of Defence Mr Greg Moriarty and the Chiefs of the three Services.

The visit has advanced cooperation on ‘shared priorities and interoperability, including in maritime domain awareness and reciprocal information sharing. India is a top-tier security partner for Australia, with both countries committed to working together to promote a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. 

Source: CDF_Aust

CDS General Anil Chauhan visited the Force Command Headquarters to gain insights into Australia's operational command structure and discussed potential avenues for joint operations. General Chauhan also interacted with the Australian Fleet Commander and the Joint Operations Commander. 

In furtherance to India's commitment to professional military training and education, the CDS visited the prestigious Australian Defence College, where he addressed senior officers on strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The CDS also chaired a round table discussion at the Lowy Institute, Australia's premier think tank."

The two countries have established a strong tempo of exercises and activities across the domains of maritime, land and air, working through the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership and as trilateral and quadrilateral partners. 

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also highlighted India’s crucial role in diversifying trade links and boosting Australia’s prosperity. The two nations are working on a new roadmap to help Australian businesses tap into India’s rapidly growing market, set to become the third-largest economy by 2030.

An extra USD 4 million will be allocated to expand the Maitri Grants program, strengthening business, cultural and people-to-people ties. Australia’s existing free trade agreement with India has already delivered substantial financial benefits, with tariff savings expected to reach USD 2 billion by year-end, further enhancing the economic partnership.