India and Australia have agreed to further strengthen their existing bilateral ties in the field of skill development and education. This was decided in a meeting between the minister of Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi and Australian minister for Immigration and Citizenship Chris Bowen in New Delhi today. Talking to reporters after the meeting, the minister said that talks with Mr. Bowen were fruitful and both sides decided to increase coordination in the field of skill development and education. Mr. Ravi said that Mr. Bowen has assured him of complete security to Indian students studying in Australia.

Replying to a query on the steps taken by the Australian government for the security of Indian students, Mr Bowen said that his government is making all efforts to ensure their security. He also welcomed more Indian students to study in Australia.