'India is moving towards a prominent position internationally and so will impinge on everyone's agenda. The emerging economy has all the makings of a global powerhouse, with a bigger and more exciting role to play and we will all see more of it.'

Varghese hopes to extend dialogue on a range of emerging pathways like global governance and regional security, particularly in the context of G20. Likewise strategic cooperation between the two countries in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism and defence also feature prominently on his agenda.

Will uranium pose an issue? Not necessarily, believes Varghese, 'because the Indian government understands the ramifications of our stand on Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Australia has been very upbeat and positive about the India-US nuclear deal. We will continue to maintain a dialogue and work to a level of understanding.'

Diplomacy and international affairs have been Varghese's passion since his university days.

'Perhaps, it has got to do with my migratory experience,' he explained.

Varghese hails from a family that moved from Kerala to Kenya to Australia in search of better career prospects. His parents were academics, originally from Mallapalli in Kerala, who wanted nothing but the best for their seven sons, each of whom has since carved a special niche in Australia.

With over three decades of experience in foreign affairs, Varghese has been international adviser to former prime minister John Howard, besides extended stints at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

India will certainly not be a cakewalk, he confesses. 'While I will be exposed to different sorts of issues, the sheer scope and size of my agenda and the growth spurt Australia is expecting will make it a relentlessly busy experience,' he said.

His 'Indian links' notwithstanding, the future envoy is quick to reinforce the fact that his loyalties are essentially Australian.

'No, there are certainly no divided loyalties, but my background will help me understand India and work closely with the locals in taking the Australian equation forward,' he holds.

Varghese has nothing but admiration for fellow Indian immigrants to Australia. He believes they are one of the big success stories in the island continent's migration history. They are well educated, hard working, high earning and above all well integrated drivers of the economy, he pointed out.