Modi arrives in Canberra, to hold talks with Abbott on Tuesday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet his Australian counterpart Tony Abbott for summit talks in Canberra on Tuesday during which the two countries are expected to sign a series of pacts on social security, transfer of sentenced prisoners and combating narcotics trade.

Modi arrived here on Monday on the third leg of his four-city tour of Australia from Sydney-- a short 30-minute flight-- on a special Air India plane.

In a departure from protocol, Modi was received by Foreign Minister Julie Bishop at the Defence Establishment Fairbaim, reflecting the significance attached by Australia to the visit of the prime minister that comes 28 years after Rajiv Gandhi. Foreign dignitaries are usually not received at that level when they arrive in the night.

The deal on social security is expected to make it easier to swap staff between the two countries and is likely to boost two-way investment.

The visit of Modi, who arrived in Brisbane last Friday, to attend the G20 summit on the second leg of this three-nation 10-day tour, is aimed at forging a strategic partnership with Australia to promote India’s economic goals and security interests, including maritime security.

Modi will also address the Federal Parliament after his talks with Abbott.

Image: PM Modi being welcomed to Canberra by Foreign Minister Julie Bishop. Photograph: Press Information Bureau