Australia assures safety of Indian students, says Krishna

Chaku Cairns (Australia): Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on Friday assured, the visiting Indian External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna that all steps would be taken to ensure the safety and security of Indian students in his country.

Krishna, who is on a five-day visit to Australia, discussed the racial attacks on Indian students with Rudd.

After a closed-door meeting lasting for about half and hour, Krishna expressed satisfaction over the steps being taken by the Australian Government to stop attacks.

"Prime Minister Rudd is fully aware of the sensitivity of the issues concerning students. He explained me about the remedial measures taken by his government. I am satisfied that both Federal and state level governments in Australia are fully geared to meet the situation," Krishna said.

"Rudd described India as emerging power and I am convinced that Indian students coming here will be safe and taken care off," Krishna added.

Rudd also told Krishna that the Australian Universities would like to see more Indian students in their campuses.

Apart from the student's issue, Krishna and Rudd also discussed various bilateral issues including trade and terrorism.

Sources said the talks on the export of uranium did not figure in their meeting (ANI)