Beyond Cricket: The Rise of India-Australia Strategic Ties
Nov 12, 2024
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In this engaging conversation, Professor Ian Hall, an expert in international relations and author on Indian foreign policy, shares insights on the evolving India-Australia relationship. They discuss how ties have shifted from cultural aspects like cricket to a robust strategic partnership, particularly in response to China's influence. Key topics include the newly established free trade agreement and opportunities in critical minerals and the blue economy. The importance of the Indian diaspora in strengthening bilateral cooperation is also highlighted.
The India-Australia relationship has transformed from cultural ties to a strategic partnership, driven by concerns over China's regional influence.
The Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement symbolizes deepening economic ties, despite challenges like trade imbalances and protective agricultural policies.
Deep dives
Evolution of India-Australia Relations
The relationship between India and Australia has evolved significantly over the past decade, transitioning from a focus on cultural ties, such as cricket and the Commonwealth, to a more strategic partnership. Both nations recognized the need to strengthen their relationship, driven by shared concerns regarding China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. This shift has led to a deeper engagement in political and economic discussions, culminating in efforts to address common interests. Key developments include increased diplomatic dialogue, economic cooperation, and an acknowledgment of mutual benefits arising from a robust bilateral relationship.
Impact of the Economic Cooperation Agreement
The Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), signed in April 2023, highlights the growing economic interdependence between the two nations amidst pre-existing trade hesitancies. This agreement marks a significant step for India, which has historically approached free trade cautiously and has previously withdrawn from larger trade agreements. Both countries secured an arrangement that reflects their distinct economic realities, stimulating new market opportunities while leaving room for future negotiations on a more comprehensive agreement. The ECTA has already demonstrated positive outcomes, with trade volumes from both nations doubling since its implementation.
Addressing Challenges in the India-Australia Partnership
Despite the progress in their partnership, both India and Australia must navigate various challenges as they seek to deepen their cooperation. Concerns regarding trade imbalances and access to markets persist, particularly in agriculture, where both nations have protective stances on certain sectors. Moreover, the geopolitical dynamics shaped by China's assertiveness add layers of complexity to the bilateral relations, necessitating joint efforts on maritime security and regional stability. To maximize opportunities, both countries must strengthen their collaborative frameworks, such as the Quad, and maintain open dialogue to address any misunderstandings that may arise.
In this episode of All Things Policy, Anisree Suresh converses with Professor Ian Hall from Griffith University, Australia, about the evolving India-Australia relationship. They explore how the relationship has grown from centring on “cricket, curry, and the Commonwealth” to a more comprehensive strategic and economic partnership.
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.
Find out more on our research and other work here: https://takshashila.org.in/
Check out our public policy courses here: https://school.takshashila.org.in
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