Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has praised Narendra Modi for his leadership style, saying that despite being in power for over a decade, the Indian leader has remained free from the “arrogance of power.”
Abbott made the remarks while speaking about the significance of the Raisina Dialogue 2026, the 11th edition of India’s premier geopolitical and strategic forum recently held in New Delhi.
Raisina Dialogue a Major Global Strategic Forum
Discussing the growing global importance of the Raisina Dialogue, Abbott said the forum has been held annually in New Delhi since 2016.
He noted that the idea behind the event came from S. Jaishankar, who played a key role in shaping India’s diplomatic engagement with the world.
According to Abbott, the conference brings together political leaders, military commanders, business leaders, journalists, and think tank experts to discuss key global challenges.
He also compared the dialogue to other global forums, saying it differs from gatherings like World Economic Forum Annual Meeting because it focuses more on open discussion rather than simply praising the host government.
Praise for Modi’s Leadership Style
Abbott also praised Modi’s leadership approach, noting that even though he is among the most influential leaders globally, he continues to listen to diverse global voices.
Referring to the opening sessions of the Raisina Dialogue, Abbott said that the Prime Minister traditionally attends the event and listens to the chief guest rather than delivering the main address himself.
He pointed out that in recent editions of the dialogue, leaders such as the Prime Minister of New Zealand and the President of Finland delivered keynote remarks during the opening session while Modi attended as a listener.
‘Modi Among the World’s Most Powerful Leaders’
Abbott said Modi is widely regarded as one of the most powerful leaders in the world, ranking just behind the leaders of major powers like the United States and China.
Despite holding such influence, Abbott noted that Modi has maintained humility and avoided the arrogance often associated with long periods in power.
He suggested that Modi’s early life experiences, including spiritual influences, may have helped him maintain this grounded leadership style.
Rejects Criticism About India’s Democracy
The former Australian Prime Minister also rejected claims by some international observers that India has become less democratic under the Bharatiya Janata Party government.
Abbott said the criticism was unfounded, pointing out that India continues to hold free and fair elections, maintain an independent judiciary, and support a free media environment.
He also cited the Raisina Dialogue itself as evidence of India’s openness, noting that global conferences in the country allow diverse viewpoints and participation from leaders with differing perspectives.
For example, he noted that during this year’s discussions, both Israel’s foreign minister (virtually) and Iran’s deputy foreign minister participated in the forum, highlighting the platform’s inclusive and open nature.
