Prime Minister Narendra Modi used a numerical analogy to describe the India-Australia partnership as exponential during delegation-level talks this week [1].
The phrasing signals a strategic shift in how the two nations view their cooperation, suggesting the relationship produces results far beyond simple addition.
During the Australia-India Annual Leaders’ Summit, Modi said the partnership is not merely additive [2]. He described the synergy between the two nations using the formula "1+1 is 11" [3], though other reports of the discussion noted the phrasing as "1+1+11" [1].
Modi used the analogy to stress that the bilateral relationship is deepening and that the cooperation is more than the sum of its parts [2]. The prime minister compared the strength of the bond to the way sugar blends into milk, suggesting a seamless and enhancing integration [3].
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded to the analogy during the talks. Albanese said, "When India & Australia come together, 1+1 becomes greater than 2" [3].
The remarks occurred on July 6 [2] during Modi's visit to Australia. The delegation-level talks focused on strengthening ties across various sectors, utilizing the numerical theory to frame the potential for future growth [1], [2].
By framing the partnership in mathematical terms, the leaders aimed to highlight a level of cooperation that transcends standard diplomatic agreements. The discussions emphasized a shared vision for the region, where the combined influence of the two democracies creates a multiplier effect on security and trade [2].
“"1+1 is 11."”
The use of exponential metaphors by both Modi and Albanese indicates a desire to move the India-Australia relationship from a transactional partnership to a strategic alliance. By framing the cooperation as '1+1 is 11,' the leaders are signaling to the international community that their combined geopolitical and economic weight is intended to create a disproportionate impact on Indo-Pacific stability.
