Eminent Indian diplomat visits Deakin

A visiting Indian VIP has described his recent tour of Deakin University's Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (ITRI) at the Geelong Technology Precinct (GTP) as a 'revealing and fascinating experience'.

Ambassador Chinmaya Gharekhan, who has been described as one of India's most eminent and experienced diplomats, was in Australia to deliver the 2009 Australia-India Strategic Lecture at the Lowy Institute in Sydney. His visit to Australia was sponsored by the Australia-India Council.

During his visit to Deakin, Ambassador Gharekhan was given an insight into the world class research taking place at ITRI in a variety of fields including carbon fibre composite technology, metals and foam, light metals, fibres and textiles, and metabolic research. Facilities such as an electron microscope suite were also on the tour itinerary. The Ambassador said he found discussions of nanotechnology particularly interesting.

"I have heard so much about nanotechnology, but this is the first time I have seen examples of its practical applications," he said.

Dr Andrew Parratt, ITRI's Executive Director said he welcomed the Ambassador taking the time to visit the Institute and the GTP.

"The research that we are doing here at ITRI is focussed on the creation of new technologies to address real world problems. It is research that has a place on the world stage so it is wonderful when an opportunity to showcase our work to international visitors such as Ambassador Gharekhan comes about," he said.

Following his visit the Ambassador said he had enjoyed meeting researchers, describing them as pioneers. He also acknowledged the work of Indian researchers at Deakin.

"I was pleased to see that so many of my compatriots are here working towards making their own contribution to improving the future of mankind," he said.

During his visit to Deakin Ambassador Gharekhan also met Professor Lee Astheimer, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), and Associate Professor Ian Robottom, Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor (International).