Melbourne, July 9 -- Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan on Thursday described India as "a country we trust" and underscored the deep people-to-people ties between India and the Australian state, saying the Indian community is "part of who we are" in Victoria.

Addressing the Indian diaspora at the community event during the visit of PM Modi to Australia, Allan said Victoria deeply values its partnership with India and welcomed Indian students, businesses, families and ideas.

"Mr Modi, I do invite you to take this message back home with you to India. Victoria respects India. We value your people. We welcome your students, your businesses, your families, your ideas. In Victoria, the Indian community is not just accepted, they are part of who w...