Oz admits some attacks on Indians 'racist'

New Delhi, Mar 3: Australia on Wednesday, Mar 3, admitted that some of the attacks on Indians were racists in nature.

Speaking to reporters here, Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said, "I acknowledge absolutely that this issue has caused considerable damage to Australia's reputation among Indian people.

He said, "We know that a number of these assaults are racists and have racial overtones. These are absolutely contemptible."

"We are doing a range of things in future to better portray modern Australia. We want to underline the strength of relationship between India and Australia," Smith said.

He further said, "I want to give the message that we have zero tolerance to any such attack. We want to bring the culprits to justice."

Smith pointed out that there have been convictions in many cases while investigation is going on in 70 cases.

"Several initiatives have been taken by his government to check such incidents, Smith said adding "We abhor violence. We abhor these attacks."

OneIndia News