5 seconds ago 2009-11-25T08:52:27-08:00
NEW DELHI (AFP) – Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, on an official visit to New Delhi, vowed Thursday to take all possible action to end allegedly racial attacks on Indian students in Melbourne and Sydney.
A series of assaults since May have strained ties between the two countries, with India demanding more protection for its 95,000 students studying in Australia.
Canberra has downplayed any racial aspect to the attacks, saying jobs that Indian students do to support their education meant they were often in dangerous areas or on public transport late at night.
The assaults have attracted widespread media condemnation in India.
"There have been criminal attacks targeting Indian students for the little money they earn to support their studies. These attacks will not be tolerated," Rudd told a gathering of diplomats and students in New Delhi.
"As Prime Minister of Australia, I am deeply disturbed and disgusted by attacks of violence against any foreign students," he said, promising steps to ensure their safety.
Australia "is committed to doing its utmost to guarantee that the sons and daughters Indian parents entrusted to the care of the Australian community remain safe and come home with a valuable education."
Rudd was due to meet his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh later Thursday for talks on trade, energy and climate change.
"Leadership from emerging countries -- especially India -- will be essential if we are to see a global deal on climate change at Copenhagen," Rudd said, referring to the global summit on emissions next month.
