Australia
Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong, Announces New Diplomatic Appointments to India
Senator Penny Wong, Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, has officially announced the appointment of Philip Green OAM as the new High Commissioner to India and Ms. Hilary McGeachy as Australia’s first Consul-General in Bengaluru. Philip Green OAM will be taking over the role from Barry O’Farrell AO as the High Commissioner, and it is important to note that the High Commissioner to India is also accredited to the Kingdom of Bhutan.
These appointments come at a time when the relationship between Australia and India is strengthening, especially with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Australia. In her media release, Penny Wong highlighted the close ties between the two countries, their shared perspectives, challenges, and democratic heritage. She emphasized the collaboration through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Quad partnership, aiming to promote a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region with a focus on respecting sovereignty.
Australia and India’s relationship extends beyond defense and security cooperation to a mutually beneficial economic partnership, which is expected to expand further as they work towards finalizing an ambitious Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement.
Philip Green brings a wealth of experience to his new role as a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He has previously served as Australia’s Ambassador to Germany, High Commissioner to Singapore, South Africa, and Kenya.
The Consulate-General in Bengaluru will be Australia’s fifth diplomatic mission in India and will have consular responsibilities for the states of Karnataka and Telangana. Ms. Hilary McGeachy, also a career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, will be taking on this significant role. She has prior experience working in India and Germany.
Lisa Singh, CEO of the Australia India Institute, expressed her congratulations to Philip Green and Hilary McGeachy, looking forward to collaborating with them. She also extended her gratitude to Barry O’Farrell for his dedicated service as the previous High Commissioner to India, acknowledging their positive working relationship.
These appointments further signify the growing bilateral ties and the commitment to strengthen cooperation between Australia and India.
