Australian Sikh Games will bring India and Australia closer: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes to the 35th Australian Sikh Games being organised by the Australian National Sikh Sports and Cultural Council in Brisbane. Modi highlighted that the games “will also serve to bring the two countries closer”.

Modi said: “India and Australia have several commonalities – a connected history, shared values, love for democracy, and respect for a rules-based international order. We are also strong partners in progress and prosperity.”

The Prime Minister said that the Indian diaspora has carved out a niche for itself in the global landscape and these games are yet another example of it. Sharing his wishes, he said: “May the Games serve as an inspiration to motivate younger generations of Sikhs to excel in every sphere of life”.

In his message, Modi said the games will help the Sikh community to showcase its sporting skills, competitive spirit and teamwork on a bigger platform.

The High Commission of India in Canberra shared the prime minister’s message. “Message from Hon. PM @narendramodi on the occasion of 35th Australian Sikh Games,” tweeted the Indian High Commission.

Modi noted that the Sikh Gurus guided India and the world with many “eternal and timeless values.”

He said: “If one looks closely at the lives and teachings of the holy Gurus, they emphasised the importance of physical health along with spiritual growth. Further, the holy Gurus also gave the message of bringing people of different sections of society together as a team to achieve progress.”

He added that the Sikh community has been actively involved in sports, teamwork and fitness and “organisation of these games will help the Sikh community demonstrate its sporting skills, competitive spirit and teamwork on a bigger platform. The participation of players from different nations is also noteworthy”.

The PM also recollected watching a cricket match between India and Australia along with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.