Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott described India as the world’s “second democratic superpower,” capable of substituting for China in global supply chains. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s influence on the world stage and highlighted India’s significance as a bulwark of democracy amid American unpredictability. Abbott noted the growing Australia-India ties, supported by the Quad alliance, the Indian diaspora in Australia, and increasing trade. He emphasized India’s trustworthy nature in trade compared to China’s political unpredictability. Abbott also mentioned the potential for expanded cooperation and military exercises between India and Australia, reinforced by shared values and interests.
According to former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, India is becoming the world’s “second democratic superpower” and has the ability to “replace China” as a reliable component of global supply chains.
In an exclusive interview with NDTV on Saturday, Mr. Abbott remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi “makes a significant impression on the global stage” and is capable of affecting numerous global events.
“During my time as Prime Minister, I often stated that India was emerging as the world’s democratic superpower. I firmly believe that under Prime Minister Modi, India has truly established itself as the world’s second democratic superpower. We need more democratic superpowers, and if the American role is unpredictable, it’s crucial that India stands as a strong supporter of democracy, not only in the region but on a global scale,” Mr. Abbott stated.
When asked if India could help ease tensions between the US and Europe, Mr. Abbott praised Prime Minister Modi for his remarks regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, specifically saying it is “not an era of war.”
“Prime Minister Modi makes a significant impression on the global stage. He has the potential to influence many current global events if he chooses to leverage it. I remember a couple of years back when he confronted President (Vladimir) Putin of Russia at a conference, directly addressing Putin’s use of war as a national policy. I thought it was incredibly commendable for Prime Minister Modi to confront President Putin directly,” he remarked.
“As the world’s most populous nation and fifth-largest economy, with considerable potential to replace China as a trusted part of global supply chains, India holds significant and increasing influence, which it should use for positive impact,” he added.
‘Russia Started War’
Regarding the public dispute between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the former Prime Minister found the situation “deeply regrettable.”
“I believe that the agreement between the Americans and Ukrainians should proceed. I hope it can happen at the earliest opportunity. We all desire an end to the war in Ukraine, but it must come with serious security assurances. Let’s not forget that this war began with Russia’s invasion. If the conflict is to end, it cannot conclude in a way that rewards aggression,” he asserted.
Trade With India vs Trade With China
When discussing Australia-India relations, Mr. Abbott noted that the two nations have grown closer due to the Quad grouping, which includes the US and Japan, a rising Indian diaspora in Australia, and increased trade. He also mentioned that while India is likely to uphold agreements, trade with China is often dictated by the political motives of the Chinese government.
“India’s exports to Australia have been growing at double the rate of its exports to the rest of the world. India has the potential to significantly enhance Australian exports of raw materials, especially to support President Modi’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. I believe India can effectively replace China in our critical supply chains because when you strike a deal with India, you can trust that it will be honored,” said the former Prime Minister.
“What we found with our trade with China a couple of years ago was that it could be manipulated to reflect the political or strategic interests of the Chinese Communist government. Therefore, the potential for a much larger two-way trade exists. Australia also serves as a crucial potential source of strategic minerals for India in the years and decades ahead,” he emphasized.
‘Sky’s The Limit’
On the prospects of expanding ties between India and Australia, Mr. Abbott indicated that there is a sense of “ease and comfort” in the relationship, bolstered by a shared passion for cricket and the historical camaraderie of Indian and Australian soldiers who have fought together.
The former Prime Minister also stressed that the Quad could become as significant as the Five Eyes alliance, which comprises America, Britain, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, and is regarded as “probably the most important strategic partnership in the post-war era.”
“India has started participating in military exercises in Australia, and Australia has regularly taken part in India’s Malabar naval exercises. The potential for collaboration is immense, given our shared interests, values, commitment to democracy, and the rule of law, along with our mutual love for cricket,” he concluded.