In an exclusive roundtable discussion with Indian media professionals and journalists, Philip Green, the Australian High Commissioner to India, provided an in-depth overview of the growing and multifaceted ties between Australia and India. The exchange covered a wide spectrum of topics, including trade and economic relations, security and strategic cooperation, education, sports diplomacy, immigration, cultural links, and the impact of global conflicts. Through this conversation, Green conveyed a comprehensive picture of how Australia views its engagement with India, which he described as one of Asia’s most dynamic and rapidly expanding economies.
Focusing on trade relations, Green underlined Australia’s strong belief in free trade as a tool for fostering growth and prosperity. He observed that tariffs function as hidden taxes on consumers, contributing to inflation and slowing economic expansion. Pointing to the success of the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), he proudly noted that by the next year, all Indian goods entering Australia would face zero tariffs. The results have already been notable: while India’s overall exports to the world increased by 35% in the past five years, its exports to Australia surged by 66%, nearly doubling the global growth rate. Green attributed this progress to the natural complementarities between the two economies, with Australia offering high-quality energy, critical minerals, advanced vocational skills, and the presence of Australian universities in India—resources essential for India’s next phase of growth.
On the subject of security and the Quad, Green described the grouping as a transformative development for India–Australia ties. He explained that while the two nations had long enjoyed friendly relations, the Quad had elevated the partnership to one of strategic alignment. He highlighted multiple high-level meetings in 2024, including two significant court meetings in January and July, alongside foreign ministers’ engagements. A leaders’ summit in Delhi later in the year is also anticipated. Addressing concerns about the unpredictability of U.S. policies, particularly during Donald Trump’s presidency, Green emphasized that Australia remains a pillar of stability and a dependable ally for India. Speaking on AUKUS, he acknowledged that it may face scrutiny but expressed confidence that the arrangement would endure.
Sports diplomacy and cultural engagement were also central themes in the discussion. While cricket remains a shared passion, Green expressed Australia’s intent to broaden cooperation into other sporting arenas. He drew attention to Australia’s role as host of the 2032 Olympic Games and noted India’s aspirations to host global events such as the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. Australia, he assured, is ready to support India with expertise in stadium construction and sports precinct management. On cultural exchange, he humorously referred to Australia’s thriving coffee culture, reminding the audience that the globally popular “flat white” coffee originated in Melbourne, symbolizing how cultural practices can transcend borders.
Immigration and diaspora relations were presented as another cornerstone of bilateral ties. Green observed that Indian migrants are currently the fastest-growing community in Australia, with Indian languages being the most rapidly expanding linguistic group. Today, nearly one million people of Indian origin reside in Australia, significantly enriching its multicultural fabric. On the sensitive issue of hate crimes, he took a firm stand, asserting that violence and intolerance have no place in Australian society. He emphasized that the government had responded swiftly and unequivocally to condemn recent incidents, reinforcing its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of Indian migrants.
Global conflicts and education also featured prominently in the conversation. Expressing grave concern over ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, Green reaffirmed Australia’s continued support for Ukraine and reiterated its advocacy for a two-state solution in the Middle East. Turning to education, he celebrated the establishment of Australian university campuses in India, offering innovative models such as dual-degree programs where students study two years in India and two years in Australia, ultimately graduating with degrees recognized in both nations. He emphasized that such initiatives not only strengthen academic collaboration but also foster long-term people-to-people connections.
Concluding the discussion, Green articulated a strategic outlook that portrayed Australia as a predictable, trustworthy, and enduring partner for India. Whether in trade, security, cultural exchange, education, or sports, his message was one of consistency and reassurance. In an increasingly volatile and unpredictable global environment, Australia, he stressed, is determined to remain a stable and committed friend to India, working together to advance shared interests and mutual prosperity.
