Australian Prime Minister John Howard Tuesday said his country was "serious" about fostering greater political and economic ties with India at a time when the world's focus has shifted towards Asia, particularly on the subcontinent nation.
"We in Australia are serious at government's level and on the commercial level to promote this relationship. And we will do everything we can to promote it," he said, while addressing a luncheon meet organised by Bombay Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Mumbai.
Howard, who was accompanied by a large contingent comprising business leaders, educationist and a cricketer, also committed to partner India in what he said were exciting times when the centre of gravity has profoundly shifted to the Asian region with India at its centre.
Terming India as a pivotal partner in development in the 21st century, the Australian prime minister acknowledged the economic reforms undertaken by India for liberalisation. Maintaining that the world cannot go back from the globalised environment it today operates in, Howard urged liberalised nations to "take advantage" of the environment.
Noting that Australia was the third most preferred destination for Indian students after US and UK, the Australian premier said he was for continuing this partnership in education too.