New Delhi, October 12: Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith arrived here today on a five-day visit during which the issue of attacks on Indians and preventive steps taken by the Australian government are expected to figure in talks.
The two sides will also discuss ways to increase commercial ties and cooperation in defence, counter-terrorism and climate change.
Smith, on his second visit as Foreign Minister, will hold talks with External Affairs Minister S M Krishna under the framework of Foreign Ministerial Dialogue.
Ahead of his visit, Smith said, “Minister Krishna and I will discuss advancing bilateral, regional and international cooperation between Australia and India.”
He said the two leaders will also “discuss our common interests and international political and economic issues.”
The visit, ninth by an Australian Minister, comes against the backdrop of attacks on Indians in that country.
–Agencies