General Peter Cosgrove, Governor General of Australia and Lady Cosgrove called on the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The President welcomed Peter Cosgrove on his visit to mark 20 years since he attended the 34th NDC Course in 1994. The President said it is an opportune time for India and Australia. After a gap of many decades, both the Australian and Indian Prime Ministers have made reciprocal visits to each other’s country within months of each other. Agreements/MoUs have been signed for co-operation in key areas. Relations between the two countries have never been better. India and Australia are both strong, vibrant, secular, multicultural democracies with a free press, independent judicial system and common links through the English language and cricket. There is a growing Indian community in Australia. India is grateful for Australia’s cooperation in multilateral and regional fora. It appreciates Australia’s support for India’s candidature to an expanded UN Security Council.
General Sir Peter Cosgrove said it was a privilege to be back in India and he gives India credit for his having become Governor General. The skills and perspectives, he acquired in NDC held him in good stead in his subsequent assignments in East Timor and as Chief of Australia’s military, which then led on to the position of Governor General. He said relations have taken off and he looks forward to celebrating the flourishing of relations between the two countries during his term as Governor General.