New Delhi/Sydney/IBNS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met several prominent Australian personalities in separate meetings in Sydney.

In his first meeting, PM Modi met Professor Brian P. Schmidt, Nobel laureate in Physics and Vice-Chancellor & President of Australian National University, Canberra.

In a tweet on the meeting, the Indian PM said: “Had an excellent conversation on science and innovation with Nobel Laureate Dr. Brian Paul Schmidt. His work on these subjects has been rich and shaped academic discourse greatly.”

He then met Mark Balla, a business specialist and accomplished public speaker on humanitarian issues. “Mark Balla has done commendable work on a topic I am very passionate about - access to sanitation. People know him as a ‘Toilet Warrior’. Was wonderful interacting with him earlier today," PM Modi said.

He also Danielle Mate Sullivan, aboriginal artist about whom PM Modi tweeted: “It was wonderful to learn more about Australian art from Ms. Danielle Mate. Her efforts to popularise traditional forms of art are noteworthy.”

In his fourth meeting, PM Modi met Sarah Todd, international chef, restaurateur, TV host, speaker and entrepreneur.

“Sarah Todd, the celebrity chef, is very passionate about India, which was reflected in her deep knowledge about our cuisine, spices and more. Had an excellent interaction with her in Sydney,” said he.

The Indian PM met Professor Toby Walsh, chief scientist, Artificial Intelligence Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney about which he wrote: “Had a fascinating discussion on different frontiers of AI and futuristic technology with Mr. @TobyWalsh. One can clearly see his passion towards AI and the need to ensure it is harnessed for human progress.”

PM Modi congratulated all of them on their achievements and encouraged them to contribute to strengthening the India-Australia relationship.