India and Australia today inked six agreements in areas including combating terrorism, civil aviation security, sports, health and medicine and satellite navigation. The pacts were signed after delegation talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in New Delhi.

Earlier this morning, the visiting dignitary was accorded ceremonial reception at the forecourts of Rashtrapati Bhavan in the morning. He also visited Rajghat, to pay floral tributes to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi.

In his press statement after holding delegation-level talks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, the destinies of India and Australia are connected by Indian ocean. He said, the values and principles of democracy and rule of law are common to both the nations. Mr Modi said, he and the Australian Prime Minister decided to hold discussion on comprehensive economic partnership between the two countries.

He said, cooperation in the field of research and education is one of the important aspect of bilateral relations. He said, collaboration on bananas and pulses are two successful examples that will benefit millions including the farmers. Prime Minister said, student exchanges are important element of education and building world class institutions in India is one the priorities of his government.

Mr Modi emphasized on peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. He said, challenges like terrorism and cyber security requires global strategy and solutions. Mr Modi expressed satisfaction at ongoing cooperation in defence and security, maritime exercises and exchanges on counter-terrorism and transnational crimes between India and Australia.

In his statement, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said not only cricket but commitment to democracy and rule of law connects the two nations. He appreciated the success as a largest democracy in the world. Mr Turnbull said research institutions of the two countries are collaborating in critical areas including health.

The two Prime Ministers inaugurated Nano-Techhnology Centre at Gurugram through video conference.