Diplomat Correspondent
New Delhi, DD, In a moment of pride and recognition, Prof. Amitabh Mattoo, one of India’s most respected academics and policy thinkers, was honoured during a prestigious ceremony commemorating five years of the Australia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The landmark event celebrated the growing collaboration between the two nations and paid tribute to individuals who have played a pivotal role in nurturing and advancing this vital bilateral relationship.
Held in the presence of senior dignitaries, diplomats, and thought leaders from both countries, the felicitation ceremony recognised Prof. Mattoo’s enduring contribution as a bridge of understanding, cooperation, and strategic trust between India and Australia. A renowned international affairs scholar and former Advisor to the Government of Jammu & Kashmir, Prof. Mattoo has long championed the cause of deeper academic, cultural, and strategic ties between the two democracies.
Prof. Mattoo was the inaugural Director of the Australia India Institute both at the University of Melbourne and at its New Delhi Chapter, where he played a transformative role in shaping the intellectual and diplomatic dialogue between the two countries. He also holds the position of Honorary Professor at the University of Melbourne, further solidifying his influence and commitment to Indo-Australian collaboration in higher education and public policy.
The event witnessed Prof. Mattoo being presented with a token of honour and appreciation on stage, amidst resounding applause. Expressing his emotions on social media, Prof. Mattoo shared, “A deep honour, humbling & overwhelming.”
Over the years, Prof. Mattoo has been instrumental in forging robust partnerships across educational institutions, think tanks, and policy circles. His visionary leadership has led to several high-impact academic and policy exchanges that have enriched the strategic relationship between India and Australia.
Launched in June 2020, the Australia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has since evolved into a multifaceted framework encompassing cooperation across defence, trade, education, technology, and regional security. Honouring Prof. Mattoo at this milestone celebration is a testament to the impact of individuals who have laid the intellectual and strategic foundations of this vital global partnership.DD
