India secures Australian uranium deal to boost nuclear energy plans

Modi is also scheduled to address thousands of supporters at a community gathering in Melbourne, reflecting his strong support among the Indian

India and Australia have signed a landmark agreement that will pave the way for long-term Australian uranium supplies to India, marking a significant step in strengthening energy cooperation between the two countries and supporting India’s expanding nuclear power ambitions.

The agreement was announced during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Australia, where he held talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Modi described the deal as an important milestone that would accelerate India’s clean energy goals by ensuring access to a reliable source of nuclear fuel.

Australia possesses one of the world’s largest uranium reserves, accounting for nearly 28 percent of global resources. Although the two nations signed a civil nuclear cooperation agreement in 2015, regulatory hurdles and political sensitivities had prevented meaningful uranium trade until now.

Under the new arrangement, Australian uranium will be supplied exclusively for peaceful purposes and will remain subject to safeguards overseen by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the agreement would support India’s transition toward cleaner energy by increasing the share of non-fossil fuel electricity generation.

The deal is expected to help India meet its rapidly growing energy demand as the country continues to expand its nuclear power capacity to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

During the visit, the two leaders also highlighted the growing strategic partnership between their countries. Albanese credited Modi’s leadership for strengthening bilateral relations, while the two prime ministers projected a warm rapport during public appearances in Melbourne.

India’s growing influence in Australia has been reinforced by the rapid expansion of the Indian-origin population. Official figures released earlier this year showed that, for the first time, people born in India have become Australia’s largest overseas-born community, surpassing those born in the United Kingdom.

Modi is also scheduled to address thousands of supporters at a community gathering in Melbourne, reflecting his strong support among the Indian diaspora. However, his visit has also drawn criticism from activist groups planning demonstrations over concerns about minority rights in India and immigration-related issues.

Following the conclusion of his Australia visit, Modi is expected to travel to New Zealand as part of his regional tour.