Perspective: Why ex-politicians like Barry O'Farrell can make great diplomats
Barry O’Farrell's appointment as Australia's next high commissioner to India is an apt decision by the Morrison government. However, it will coincide with growing criticism of political appointments for Australia's heads of mission abroad, much of which does not withstand scrutiny and fails to acknowledge their unique capabilities.Credit:Some will call it nepotism, but O’Farrell’s appointment is symbolic of the changing face of diplomacy.
They operate in political and diplomatic environments that are well suited to the skills of ex-politicians. While O’Farrell’s appointment is to a mission that has traditionally been filled from within the ranks of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, his credentials and the current geopolitical landscape will suit him.
In 2018 the federal government formally accepted recommendations of the India Economic Strategy to 2035 report, which “provides a roadmap for Australia’s economic future with India”. However, last November Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi withdrew India from negotiations on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, a 16-country trade agreement that covered almost 40 per cent of the global economy, citing concerns that China could dump agricultural and industrial goods in India.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Barry O'Farrell appointed as Australian High Commissioner to India | Sky News AustraliaBarry O'Farrell has been appointed as Australia’s next High Commissioner to India. \n\nThe former NSW Liberal Premier replaces Harinder Sidhu, who has held the post since February 2016.\n\nMr O'Farrell will be charged with strengthening ties with India, which is one of Australia's most important strategic and trading partners. \n\nImage: News Corp Australia
Read more »
Why Gina Liano didn’t want to re-join Real Housewives castIt’s hard to imagine Real Housewives Of Melbourne without the OG Gina Liano – but the star has revealed she almost pulled the pin.
Read more »
We still don’t know why we existPhysicists at CERN have observed a property of antihydrogen that had previously only been predicted, reaffirming a fundamental symmetry of nature and prolonging the question of how we exist.
Read more »
Why I am determined to bring my children up as vegetariansIt’s not just about health or safety. We care about their moral development.
Read more »
Why are major Australian companies self-reporting underpaying staff?Here&x27;s what to do if you think your employer is underpaying you
Read more »
Why Canberra has become an inspiration for Indonesia's new capital cityIs Canberra really a model Indonesia should follow as it prepares to build its new capital city?
Read more »