Our Bureau
New Delhi
Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott declared in NDTV World Summit 2025 that the 21st century belongs to India, envisioning the Indian Prime Minister as potentially the future leader of the free world within 40 to 50 years. Abbott praised India for its democratic values, rule of law, and English language advantage compared to China, positioning the country as a strong democratic counterweight to China’s hegemonic ambitions.
Abbott stressed India’s growing infrastructure and demographic advantage as signs of its rise on the world stage. Trade agreements like those with Australia in 2022 and the UK more recently highlight a shift among democratic nations moving away from China. He warned democratic countries to be vigilant about China’s aggressive stance, especially concerning Taiwan, which he sees as a potential flashpoint.
Highlighting geopolitics, Abbott argued that the Ukraine war might have been avoided if Ukraine were part of NATO. He critiqued the US decision during the Cold War to lean towards Pakistan over India, emphasizing India’s liberal democracy as a more reliable ally. On US tariff policies, Abbott noted that former President Trump miscalculated by imposing punitive tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, while countries like China faced fewer consequences.
Abbott called upon India to embrace its role as a superpower and a key ally for nations like Australia. His remarks underline the geopolitical importance of India in global affairs as a democratic alternative to China’s rising influence.
This declaration at the NDTV World Summit 2025 sets the tone for India’s aspirations as a rising global power and a leader in shaping the future of democracy worldwide.
