Optimism Underpins the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement
Optimism Underpins the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement
by Victor Perton
"Both delegations expressed optimism about the future of the CECA and the broader India-Australia economic partnership," declared the Indian Government press release on the stocktake meeting for the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).
The Indian delegation, led by Additional Secretary and Chief Negotiator of the Department of Commerce, Rajesh Agrawal, and the Australian delegation, headed by First Assistant Secretary and Chief Negotiator of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ravi Kewalram, emphasised the shared commitment to deepening economic ties. This optimism reflects more than just diplomatic courtesy—it underscores a belief in the transformative potential of CECA to strengthen bilateral economic frameworks, foster innovation, and catalyse growth for both nations.
In some senses, this optimism mirrors the sentiment captured in Paragraph 5 of the Leaders' Statement at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa: "Heads reaffirmed their commitment to include, respect, understand, support, and strengthen the voice and agency of the youth—an integral part of the Commonwealth—and to restore hope and optimism in our common future." Such declarations remind us that optimism is not merely a tool for economic policy but a profound force for societal inclusion and a brighter shared destiny.
As evidenced by research like The Optimism Effect from the University of Sydney, optimism is a powerful driver of productivity and innovation at national and organisational levels.

Furthermore, optimism forms the foundation of successful partnerships, nurturing trust, creativity, and bold action. Leaders Rajesh Agrawal and Ravi Kewalram embody the visionary leadership required to turn aspirations into tangible outcomes by anchoring CECA negotiations in optimism. As the agreement evolves, optimism will continue to drive both nations to navigate challenges and capitalise on opportunities.
A Question for Reflection
How can the optimism driving CECA negotiations be expanded to include broader societal initiatives, especially those focused on youth and their role in shaping the future?
