Tony Abbott Slams Trump Tariffs, Says America’s Future Tied With India Not Pakistan’s Politics

International News: Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has strongly criticized President Trump’s tariff policy on India, saying it damaged trust between two close partners. During Trump’s second term, the United States imposed heavy tariffs of nearly 50 percent on Indian goods, including an extra 25 percent on oil imports linked to Russia. Abbott, while describing himself as a Trump supporter, openly admitted the move was wrong. He highlighted that India faced penalties while countries like China, accused of trade manipulation, avoided similar action.

Impact on India-US trade ties

Abbott warned that these tariffs created unnecessary strain on India-US relations. For decades, both nations have worked to strengthen their economic and security partnership. The sudden trade restrictions sent shockwaves through New Delhi, raising doubts about Washington’s reliability as an ally. At the NDTV World Summit, Abbott described the decision as a setback but said he remained hopeful. According to him, the impact would be temporary, and India-US ties would eventually recover due to shared democratic values and mutual interests.

America’s misplaced focus on Pakistan

Beyond trade, Abbott also raised concerns about America’s political choices. He argued that Washington’s past focus on Pakistan was a mistake. While India is the world’s largest democracy, Pakistan has long been dominated by its military. Abbott recalled how during the Cold War, America tilted toward Pakistan, ignoring India’s democratic potential. He urged the US to learn from history and build deeper trust with India instead. In his view, Pakistan cannot offer the same long-term partnership America needs.

India as a global leader

Abbott underlined that the 21st century belongs to India. With its growing economy, rising global influence, and democratic system, India is now ready to take leadership roles on the world stage. He suggested that India’s Prime Minister could stand beside the US President as a global leader of the free world. Abbott emphasized that a strong India-US partnership would not only benefit the two countries but also help maintain balance in Asia, especially against authoritarian powers like China.

Tariff policy seen as short-sighted

According to Abbott, Trump’s tariff move was not just an economic mistake but also a strategic error. By punishing India, the US sent mixed signals about its priorities. He reminded that China, accused of trade fraud, escaped such penalties. This inconsistency, he argued, weakens America’s credibility. Abbott urged Washington to avoid repeating such errors, warning that short-term policies risk undermining long-term alliances. He believes America’s true friends are those who share its democratic values.

Importance of repairing relations

Despite the damage caused by tariffs, Abbott expressed optimism. He said India and the US share too many interests to let trade disputes permanently harm their partnership. Both countries rely on each other in technology, defense, and security cooperation. He predicted that as global challenges grow, Washington will realize the importance of strengthening ties with India. Correcting past mistakes, including tariff disputes, will help the two nations unlock their full potential as strategic partners.

A lesson for Washington

Abbott’s comments serve as a reminder that America’s advantage lies in deepening bonds with India, not in repeating old patterns with Pakistan. He urged the US to treat India as an equal partner, not just an economic rival. For him, the tariff episode should be remembered as a lesson in diplomacy. By respecting India’s role as a democratic powerhouse, Washington can secure a lasting partnership that supports global stability. As Abbott put it, the century belongs to India, and America must stand with it.