Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the Fund is a valued component of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

“India represents the second largest cohort of international students in Australia, with more than 90,000 currently studying here,” Ms Jackson said.

“We look forward to welcoming Indian students back to Australia, once it is safe to do so.”

“Students also benefit from a variety of PhD twinning programs between institutions in our two countries. More than 5,000 students have travelled to India on the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan Mobility Grants during the past five years.”

“This type of program deepens students’ understanding and appreciation of other cultures and is a foundation for enduring friendships and bilateral ties.”

“It is pleasing to see the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership also recognises the importance of international research collaborations in addressing global challenges such as the response to COVID-19.”

“Many of Australia’s universities have well-established links with Indian partners, having worked to build these relationships throughout the past decade and beyond. There is still further scope for Australian universities to strengthen these ties more broadly across the sector.”

“We look forward to receiving further details on the next phase of the Australia–India Strategic Research Fund.”