PM’s XI Gala Dinner celebrates Australia-India friendship through cricket

Canberra, December 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Recently,the iconic Great Hall at Parliament House in Canberra set the stage for a dazzling celebration of Australia-India relations at the PM's XI Gala Dinner 2024. Co-hosted by the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) and Cricket ACT, the sold-out event drew over 400 distinguished guests, honouring the nations' shared passion for cricket and deep bilateral ties. The evening featured notable attendees such as former Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr, ACT Opposition Leader Leanne Castley, Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley, and India’s Deputy High Commissioner Suneet Mehta. Cricket legends Ravi Shastri, Tim Paine, and Scott Boland enthralled the audience with stories of their careers, highlighting cricket's unique role in fostering connections between the two nations.

Assistant Minister Julian Hill, representing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, delivered the keynote Australia-India Address, emphasizing how cricket unites governments, businesses, and communities, transcending boundaries and fostering collaboration.

Adding cultural flair, Bollywood dancers delighted attendees, celebrating Indian heritage in the heart of Australia’s Parliament House. The gala also underscored the growing partnership between the two nations across key sectors such as minerals, defence, infrastructure, and education.

The Australia India Business Council and Cricket ACT emphasized the importance of events like the PM's XI Gala Dinner in strengthening bilateral ties, celebrating shared values, and fostering meaningful dialogues. The evening stood as a testament to the enduring friendship between Australia and India, celebrating the spirit of cricket while envisioning a collaborative future.