Article Posted on : - Nov 22, 2011

A file photo.

NEW DELHI (PTI): Aiming at strengthen military ties with India, Australian Defence Minister Stephen Smith will be visiting here December 7.

During the visit, the Aussie Defence Minister will hold discussion with his Indian counterpart A K Antony and look for ways to enhance security cooperation between the two sides, officials said here.

Australia also takes part in the 13-nation Milan series exercise hosted by the Indian Navy along with New Zealand near the Andaman Islands.

Strategic ties between India and Australia have been on a rise in recent past and received a strong boost after Canberra's move to revoke the ban on uranium exports to India, citing New Delhi's exemplary track record on nuclear non-proliferation.

Smith also supported Prime Minister Julia Gillard for suggesting the move saying it enjoyed high-level support in the government, including from Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd.