PM Modi asked them to contribute to enhancing the ties between India and Australia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a visit to Australia, had a series of meetings with prominent personalities in Sydney on Tuesday (May 23, 2023).

One of the notable figures he met was Nobel Laureate Brian Paul Schmidt, with whom he had an engaging conversation about science and innovation. PM Modi praised Schmidt's significant contributions to academic discourse in these fields.

According to a tweet by PMO India, “Prof. Brian P Schmidt of Australian National University met PM @narendramodi in Sydney. He praised India’s strides in research and science. He says India’s ability to do world-class science has become an order of magnitude higher.”

“Had an excellent conversation on science and innovation with Nobel Laureate Dr. Brian Paul Schmidt. His work on these subjects has been rich and shaped academic discourse greatly,” PM Modi replied.

Prime Minister Modi interacted with Mark Balla, a business specialist and public speaker known for his work on humanitarian issues, particularly access to sanitation. PM Modi praised Balla's commendable efforts and referred to him as a "Toilet Warrior."

PMO India tweeted, “'Toilet Warrior' Mark Balla met PM @narendramodi in Sydney. He praised the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan terming it as one of the most important things happening in India.”

“Mark Balla has done commendable work on a topic I am very passionate about - access to sanitation. People know him as a ‘Toilet Warrior’. Was wonderful interacting with him earlier today,” PM Modi wrote, quoting the above tweet by the PMO.

He also spoke with an indigenous artist, Danielle Mate Sullivan, about how India and Australia may collaborate more effectively in promoting creative disciplines at colleges.

PMO India tweeted, “Artist Danielle Mate met PM @narendramodi today. They discussed how India and Australia could work better encouraging creative subjects in universities.”

"It was wonderful to learn more about Australian art from Ms. Danielle Mate. Her efforts to popularise traditional forms of art are noteworthy," Prime Minister Modi added.

Later, PM Modi met international chef, restaurateur, TV host, speaker and entrepreneur Sarah Todd. During the meeting, Todd admired his vision to lead India to new heights.

PMO India tweeted, “Australian celebrity chef Sarah Todd, who met PM @narendramodi, appreciated his vision for taking India to greater heights.”

“Sarah Todd, the celebrity chef, is very passionate about India, which was reflected in her deep knowledge about our cuisine, spices and more. Had an excellent interaction with her in Sydney,” he added.

Another engaging encounter took place between PM Modi and Professor Toby Walsh, the chief scientist of the Artificial Intelligence Institute at the University of New South Wales, Sydney. They delved into the realms of AI and futuristic technologies, emphasizing the importance of harnessing AI for human progress.

“PM @narendramodi interacted with Professor @TobyWalsh. They discussed about AI, India’s digital payments system UPI and the country’s growing innovation ecosystem," PMO India said on Twitter.

“Had a fascinating discussion on different frontiers of AI and futuristic technology with Mr. @TobyWalsh. One can clearly see his passion towards AI and the need to ensure it is harnessed for human progress,” Prime Minister Modi added, in response to this.

During the day, PM Modi met with sociologist, researcher, and author Associate Professor Salvatore Babones. He complimented Professor Babones during their conversation, noting that he is now well-known in India.

PM Modi tweeted, "Professor @ProfBabones is now a popular name in India. Had a good meeting with him and heard his insightful views on several subjects.

Also, PM Modi got to meet well-known Australian artist Guy Sebastian and praised him for his extraordinary skill and love of music. They talked about a range of subjects, including social service, music, and culture.

PM Modi tweeted, “Guy Sebastian is a remarkable singer and has unparalleled passion towards music. In addition, he is passionate about social service as well. I was glad to have interacted with him today. @GuySebastian”.

"Prime Minister congratulated them on their achievements and encouraged them to contribute to strengthening India-Australia relationship," the PMO said in an official press release.

Meanehile, people from the Indian diaspora enthusiastically participated in a community event in Sydney with great fervor, dancing to the performances of the Garba and Dandiya. As PM Modi spoke to Australia's vibrant and diverse Indian community, which numbers over eight lakh people, inside the Qudos Bank Arena, the atmosphere became even more electrified.