Indian-origin senior bank official Swati Dave has been named the first chairperson of the advisory board of the Center for Australia-India Relations (CAIR). CAIR is a national platform to strengthen relations between the two countries. She is currently serving as Deputy Chair of the Asia Society Australia and as a member of the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations Advisory Board.

Announcing Dave's appointment, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the center, to be launched this year, would foster stronger business and cultural understanding between the two countries. Dave brings significant strategic, leadership and business experience through his extensive roles in directorships in the public and private sectors. According to Wong, I look forward to working with Dave on this important initiative as we seek to deepen ties with one of our most important regional partners, India.