Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to confront Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding India's alleged espionage activities in Australia, which involved a "nest of spies" linked to Indian intelligence.
Albanese confirmed he would raise the issue during a private diplomatic conversation with Modi at the Quad Leaders’ Summit in the United States this weekend.
Australian authorities expelled several Indian intelligence operatives after uncovering their espionage activities in 2021. These operatives were accused of trying to steal defense and trade secrets while also surveilling the Indian diaspora in Australia.
Albanese said on Friday that those discussions will be "raised,” stressing that he plans to handle the issue through private diplomacy. "I raise issues privately. That’s how we deal with things diplomatically. And I'll continue to do so."
The espionage network was first revealed by Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Director Mike Burgess, although India was not initially named as the offending party.
Burgess disclosed in March 2021 that foreign spies had formed targeted relationships with politicians and monitored Australia's trade relationships. It was later confirmed in April that Indian intelligence was responsible, leading to the expulsion of several officials during the Morrison administration.
Despite these revelations, Albanese emphasised the strength of Australia’s relationship with India, describing it as "very strong" and acknowledging the importance of the Indian diaspora, the fastest-growing community in Australia.
"I spoke with Prime Minister Modi just a couple of weeks ago," Albanese added. "I congratulated him on getting elected another term."
The meeting between Albanese and Modi comes as part of the broader Quad Summit, where they will join U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio to discuss security issues in the Indo-Pacific region.