24 July 2009

Australian visas and education topical for Minister touring India

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard will be visiting India later this year as part of a push to improve bilateral ties between the two countries.

"Rudd is coming towards the end of the year while Gillard is expected in September to take forward the bilateral ties," the Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Chris Evans said , the Indian Times reported.

The Minister is currently on an offical visit to India to discuss immigration and education issues.

Announcing that the India-Australia joint working group on visas, passports and consular matters will meet for the first time next month, Evans said Australia will encourage Indian people as migrants, tourists and students.

Australia's international education export industry currently benefits greatly from Chinese and Indian students who study in Australia with an Australian Student Visa.

Evans said Australia valued its relationship with India and continued to build strong links for its strategic partnership.

The trial of the accused in the incidents involving attacks on Indian students would begin this month, the Minister said.

"I have been struck by the real and deep concern about the safety of your students in Australia. The Australian government is absolutely committed to supporting students to have a positive and fulfilling educational, social and cultural experience in Australia," said Evans, as he admitted that the attacks on Indian students had dented the image of Australia, in his address at Observer Research Foundation.

Evans said that the Victorian police have arrested 11 males who are now facing trial this month and that the adults convicted of assault face sentence of two to 25 years.

He said that Australia would organise a skills expo in India next year in which prospective migrants would be informed about employment and lifestyle opportunities in Australia.

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The Australian Visa Bureau is an independent consulting company specialising in helping people with Australian visas and immigration.