In a bid to strengthen their strategic alliance, India and Australia have initiated a 4-day Economic Trade Delegation Summit, which commenced on November 1. The primary objective of this summit is to enhance trade relations between the two nations. The event is expected to concentrate on various sectors such as education, space, agriculture, healthcare, and more, aiming to foster collaboration and mutual growth.
Peter Dutton, the Leader of the Opposition in Australia, discussed his inaugural strategic visit to India in his capacity as the opposition leader and shared his efforts to enhance the trade partnership between India and Australia.
In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Dutton emphasised the significance of the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), viewing it as a mutual opportunity, especially in vital areas such as critical minerals.
He highlighted the substantial potential in various sectors, including critical minerals crucial to India, the pivotal mining sector in the Australian economy, as well as significant prospects in agriculture, defence industry, and defence materials. This, he noted, was especially relevant considering the prevailing uncertainties in the global scenario.
In response to inquiries about how the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) arrangement could bolster trade ties, Dutton elaborated, stating that there is an opportunity for us to explore avenues in the agriculture sector where Australia is a reputable brand.
Additionally, he remarked that India possesses commodities that have potential in the Australian market. Defence materials are also crucial. Many Australian companies operate in this market, presenting opportunities for manufacturing and exports back to Australia.
Australia’s opposition leader, Peter Dutton, expressed his concerns on Wednesday regarding China’s “level of aggression” in the Indo-Pacific region. Dutton, who also served as the former defence minister, highlighted India’s experience on its border with China while discussing the matter. He emphasised the shared desire among nations for sustained peace in the Indo-Pacific, underscoring the need to address the worrisome situation caused by China’s aggressive actions.
Dutton emphasised the importance of upholding Australia’s values and standing firm on what is perceived as right and just, even while striving to maintain a thriving trading relationship. He made reference to India’s encounters along the land border with China and drew attention to the Philippines’ experiences in the South China Sea, highlighting the significance of learning from these situations to navigate complex international relations.
Dutton also discussed global issues, including the recent Israel-Hamas conflict. He underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing terrorism and conflicts that pose threats to peace and stability. Dutton highlighted the crucial role played by the U.S. in sending a clear message to entities like Iran and Hezbollah, especially in the context of ongoing global concerns about anti-Semitism and persecution.
