New Delhi: On Tuesday, former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott asserted that there is "no future for any separatism," urging those dissatisfied with the current situation to engage constructively within the system rather than resorting to divisive and potentially violent actions against India.
Addressing the issue of Khalistani extremism and anti-India sentiments in Australia, Abbott remarked, "Clearly, separatism has no future. Individuals who are unhappy with the status quo should strive to improve it through the established system, rather than participating in divisive and sometimes violent activities directed at modern democratic India."
In an interview with ANI, Abbott expressed his desire for stronger relations between India and Australia. He emphasized the importance of democracies in the Indo-Pacific region uniting in support of the rule of law, peaceful coexistence, and standing against coercion and intimidation.
"I genuinely wish to see the relationship between India and Australia grow. As time progresses, I believe tensions will inevitably rise between China and its neighbors, as long as China continues to be a Communist dictatorship. In such circumstances, it will be crucial for all democracies in the Indo-Pacific to unite, not against one another, but in favor of the rule of law, peaceful coexistence, and in opposition to coercion and bullying," he stated.
Referring to India as the "heart of the Quad," he highlighted the contributions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in establishing this partnership, which includes four nations: India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. He emphasized that the Quad holds significant importance and is not directed against any particular country.
"India serves as the core of the Quad. Essentially, it is the focal point of this alliance, as the Quad would not have come into existence without the efforts of Shinzo Abe from Japan and Narendra Modi from India. If it evolves as intended, the Quad could represent the most crucial geopolitical shift since NATO was formed. I want to emphasize that the Quad is not aimed at opposing anyone; rather, it stands for vital principles. The Quad advocates for democracy, the rule of law, and the right of all nations to coexist peacefully, free from intimidation by larger, more aggressive neighbors, especially in light of China's current leadership and its bullying tactics towards its neighbors," stated Tony Abbott.
"I believe the Quad is of immense significance. Currently, the Quad lacks formal structures and written agreements. It resembles the Five Eyes alliance, which has arguably been the most pivotal security partnership in history. If the leaders of the Quad nations honor, contribute to, and collaborate on this initiative in the same manner that the Five Eyes partnership has been upheld over the past seventy years, I believe the Quad could emerge as a remarkable force for peace and development in the years ahead," he continued.
The QUAD represents a diplomatic alliance between India, Australia, Japan, and the United States, dedicated to promoting an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region that is both inclusive and resilient.
Additionally, he spoke about the ongoing Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, where he noted that he had heard the comments from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and other prominent figures.
Regarding the Raisina Dialogue, Tony Abbott remarked, "I am here to listen, and this morning we heard from an Indian government minister discussing climate issues. We also engaged in a fascinating conversation featuring Foreign Affairs Minister Jaishankar about the current global landscape, and we just heard from the new director of intelligence in the Trump administration. The dialogue serves as an excellent platform for showcasing Indian soft power, attracting significant leaders and thinkers from around the globe. I am here to absorb knowledge, and I will contribute as much as I can."
The Raisina Dialogue is India's leading conference focused on geopolitics and geoeconomics, aimed at tackling the most pressing challenges facing the international community. Each year, influential figures from politics, business, media, and civil society gather in New Delhi to deliberate on global issues and seek avenues for collaboration on a variety of contemporary topics.
Labeling Russia as an "aggressor" in the Ukraine conflict, Tony Abbott expressed his desire for a just resolution to the war, emphasizing that if Ukrainians are to concede territory, it must be in exchange for genuine security.
When asked about India's position in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, he stated, "India has historically maintained strong ties with Russia, and I understand its reluctance to jeopardize that relationship. However, it is clear that Russia is the aggressor in Ukraine, engaging in a brutal imperialist war. I empathize with the desire for a swift resolution to the conflict."
"I share the hope for a prompt end to the war, but it must be achieved on just terms. If Ukrainians are to concede territory, it must be in exchange for genuine security. True security can only be assured by the presence of credible military forces from reliable nations, ensuring that any ceasefire does not merely serve as a temporary respite for Putin to regroup and launch further attacks," he continued.
