Australian Government Maintains Close Ties with India Amid Reports of Espionage
Despite reports of two Indian spies being expelled from Australia in 2020, the Australian government continues to emphasize its strong relationship with Delhi.
Foreign Agents Operating Locally in Australia
In 2021, Australia’s intelligence chief revealed that foreign agents were active within the country in the previous year, although he did not disclose their nationality. However, multiple news outlets have now identified them as Indian spies.
Efforts to Counter Foreign Interference
While Australia has neither confirmed nor denied these reports, the government is committed to combating foreign interference. Treasurer Jim Chalmers stated, “We have got a good relationship with India… It’s an important economic relationship. It’s become closer in recent years as a consequence of efforts on both sides.”
Australian Security Intelligence Organisation’s Findings
According to Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (Asio) chief Mike Burgess, a group of spies had developed targeted relationships with politicians, a foreign embassy, and a state police service in 2020. They had also attempted to obtain classified information about Australia’s trade relationships and defense projects.
Expulsion of Indian Operatives
Reports surfaced that two Indian operatives were expelled by Australia in 2020 during counter-intelligence operations. It was alleged that they had targeted classified information related to Australian trade, security, and defense.
Concerns Over Covert Actions
Recent concerns have been raised by Western allies regarding India’s covert activities on foreign soil, including allegations of involvement in the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. India has vehemently denied these accusations.
Deepening Ties Between Australia and India
Australia and India have been working to strengthen their relationship through various agreements focusing on trade, energy, and migration. Both countries, along with the US and Japan, are part of the strategic Quad alliance aimed at enhancing security in the Indo-Pacific region.
With India being Australia’s sixth largest trading partner and a significant population in Australia claiming Indian ancestry, the bilateral relationship remains crucial for both nations. – BBC
