**Australia and India Forge Uranium Export Agreement Amid Strengthening Ties**
**Melbourne, Australia – July 9, 2026**
In a significant development for both nations, Australia and India have formalized an agreement to export Australian uranium to India, aimed at bolstering the latter's nuclear energy industry. The deal was announced during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Melbourne, where he met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Following their discussions, Prime Minister Modi described the agreement as a pivotal step toward advancing clean energy objectives in India. "We have signed an important agreement today on nuclear energy," Modi stated, emphasizing the potential of this arrangement to enhance uranium supplies from Australia for "exclusively peaceful purposes."
The joint statement released after the talks highlighted that the agreement allows for long-term uranium exports, which are crucial for India as it aims to achieve a nuclear energy capacity of 100 gigawatts by 2047. Australia, which possesses around 28 percent of the world's uranium reserves, is looking to diversify its trade relationships beyond its primary partner, China.
Prime Minister Albanese reiterated the importance of the agreement, noting that it aligns with Australia’s goals to increase the share of non-fossil-fuel power capacity. The uranium exports will be conducted under the safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), ensuring that the material is used solely for peaceful energy generation.
The relationship between Australia and India regarding nuclear cooperation dates back to 2014, but concerns over the potential military use of uranium had previously limited exports. This new agreement marks a significant shift in that dynamic, reflecting a growing trust and collaboration between the two nations.
In addition to the uranium deal, Modi and Albanese discussed enhancing defense cooperation and strengthening supply chains for critical minerals, which are increasingly vital for modern technologies and energy solutions. The leaders also announced plans to establish a temporary space tracking terminal on Australia’s Cocos Keeling Islands, which will support Indian space flight projects, further deepening bilateral ties.
Prime Minister Albanese praised Modi's leadership, acknowledging his role in fostering stronger relations between Australia and India. "Prime Minister Modi, your leadership and your personal engagement with Australia has been absolutely central to this change," he remarked.
Trade between the two nations has been on the rise, with India becoming Australia’s fifth-largest trading partner. In the 2024-2025 financial year, two-way trade in goods and services was valued at approximately 54.4 billion Australian dollars (around 37.7 billion US dollars), according to Australian government data.
Modi's visit to Australia follows a trip to Indonesia, where he signed various agreements related to agriculture and defense. After concluding his engagements in Australia, Modi is scheduled to travel to New Zealand before returning to India.
The uranium export agreement is seen as a crucial step in enhancing energy security and fostering economic growth in both countries, while also contributing to global efforts to transition towards cleaner energy sources.