Zero tolerance for attacks on Indians: Oz

New Delhi, Mar 2: Australia on Tuesday, Mar 2, said it has zero tolerance for attacks on Indians or against anyone else on its soil.

Speaking to reporters, Australia Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said, "Regrettable, we know as I said to my Parliament that there have been some racial or racist overtones to a small number of those assaults and we condemn them absolutely."

Smith pointed out that several steps have been taken to ensure that when people visit his country they have an enjoyable and safe experience.

"My visit to India will advance Australia and India's bilateral, regional and international cooperation under the framework of the Australia-India Strategic Partnership," Smith said.

Smith arrived in India for a three day visit to brief the Indian Government on the actions taken by authorities to create a safe and rewarding study environment for Indian students in Australia.

Smith will meet with Minister for External Affairs S M Krishna to discuss Australia's and India's close cooperation in trying to solve the recent problems faced by some Indians in Australia.

OneIndia News