PA/05/16 27 January 2016
Australia and India youth leaders address top regional issues
Young leaders from Australia and India will today come together to discuss regional economic opportunities and global security challenges facing the two nations at the fifth Australia India Youth Dialogue (AIYD).
Fifteen young Australian leaders (under 40 years of age) will meet 15 of the best and brightest young Indian leaders at AIYD 2016, which will be hosted in three Indian cities: Delhi (January 27), Mohali (January 28-29) and Bangalore (January 30).
Australia’s Acting High Commissioner to India, Chris Elstoft, said he was delighted that the future leaders of both countries were already considering how to enrich the relationship as they foster strong bonds of friendship.
“I have been pleased to see the AIYD evolve into a meaningful platform for Australian and Indian youth to engage on contemporary issues of common interest, including sustainability, innovation and entrepreneurship,” Mr Elstoft said.
“Our countries have much to share and learn from each other. With almost two-thirds of India’s population under the age of 30, young people have a unique perspective and can offer new ideas for collaboration to advance the bilateral relationship.”
Shaun Star, Co-Founder and Chair of AIYD, said the dialogue has proven to be an effective and dynamic platform to connect youth from two vibrant democracies.
“Empowered young people can play an important role in driving forward the multi-faceted Australia-India relationship,” he said. “We have a 120-strong alumni, with another 30 being added this year. This community is a powerhouse of creative ideas, skills and experiences.”
AIYD 2016 speakers include Chris Elstoft, Australia’s Acting High Commissioner to India; Professor Amitabh Mattoo, Honorary Director of the Australia India Institute; Mukund Narayanamurti, CEO of Asialink Business; and Sumant Batra, Founder of the Kumaon Literary Festival.
AIYD 2016 delegates include Members of Parliament, CEOs, social entrepreneurs, world-class athletes, artisans, prominent journalists and foreign policy experts, among others. For a full list of AIYD 2016 delegates, visit http://aiyd.org/aiyd-2016/.
For more information or interviews with speakers, delegates and AIYD representatives, contact Monika Barthwal-Datta ([email protected]).