Water agreement the next step in Indian centre of excellence

Sister states South Australia and Rajasthan last night signed an agreement in India that will see the establishment of a new water centre of excellence in Jaipur.

The Centre of Excellence in Water and Resource Management MOU is the next step towards India having a nationally and internationally recognised centre for leadership and innovation in water resource management, education, training and research.

The agreement will enhance the already strong relationship with South Australia's own International Centre of Excellence in Water Resource Management (ICEWaRM), and exchanges of knowledge and technology will assist Rajasthan manage its own and other water resources across India.

ICEWaRM has an international reputation as Australia's centre for leadership and innovation in approaches to water resource management.

Minister for Investment and Trade Martin Hamilton-Smith and the Chief Minister of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje signed the agreement in Jaipur today as part of the State Government's week-long delegation to India.

One hundred and two people representing business, non-government and government organisations are in India this week to focus on growth opportunities for South Australia in defence and advanced manufacturing, water and environment management, resources and energy, higher education and skills training, premium food and wine, health, sports, tourism and culture.

In November last year, South Australia signed a new sister-state agreement with Rajasthan to further strengthen the relationship with India.

Earlier this year the South Australia-India Engagement Strategy was updated to reflect changing circumstances in India and South Australia.

Updates ensure the Strategy recognises important sectors of strength including aerospace and defence, energy and natural resources, education and clean technology, agribusiness food and wine.

The India mission contributes to the State Government's economic priority of building international connections and engagement.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Investment and Trade Martin Hamilton-Smith

South Australian Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation Ian Hunter and I recognise that our state and Rajasthan share similar opportunities and challenges. Both Governments recognise that sharing knowledge and experience will bring mutually beneficial value.

Our engagement with India places not only a strong emphasis on business, but on culture to ensure a deep, meaningful relationship continues to be strengthened.

We share many common links with India including language, legal systems, cultural values and of course a mutual love of cricket.

I have no doubt, and in fact we are already seeing that engagement with India is creating new business, investment and job opportunities for South Australia.