New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon Wraps Up India Visit; Calls Relationship ‘Stronger Than Ever’

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has described India as an ‘increasingly important partner’. His remarks came after a five-day official visit to New Delhi and Mumbai from 16 to 20 March.

Speaking after his return, PM Luxon said the relationship between the two nations had significantly strengthened during his trip.

Taking to X, PM posted, “India, the world’s most populous country, is an increasingly important partner for New Zealand. That partnership has grown much stronger during my visit this week.”

Talks With PM Modi & Launch Of FTA Negotiations

PM Luxon held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He expressed satisfaction over the launch of negotiations for a Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.

“It was a pleasure to visit India this week and spend time with Prime Minister @narendramodi to discuss ways to strengthen ties between our countries,” the Prime Minister posted on social media

“I am delighted that negotiations on a Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement have now been launched,” the post added.

This marked PM Luxon’s first official visit to India as Prime Minister. It was also the first visit by a New Zealand PM since 2016.

Both leaders welcomed the launch of FTA negotiations. The talks aim to achieve a comprehensive and balanced trade deal to deepen economic engagement.

Highlighting India’s economic trajectory, PM Luxon posted, “India is one of the fastest-growing economies and on track to become the third largest in the world over the next ten years.”

“Our Government is relentlessly focused on growing our economy so that all Kiwis can do better, and the launch of negotiations presents an opportunity to do exactly that,” the post added.

In a step towards greater strategic ties, both nations also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation.

They agreed to enhance maritime safety and maintain regular discussions on securing sea lanes of communication.

“New Zealand’s commitment to regional security has also been reinforced, with New Zealand and India announcing a new Defence Cooperation Arrangement,” the New Zealand PM posted.

High-Level Delegation Accompanies PM Luxon

During his five-day tour of New Delhi and Mumbai, PM Luxon was joined by key ministers:

• Louise Upston (Tourism and Hospitality),
• Mark Mitchell (Ethnic Communities, Sport and Recreation), and
• Todd McClay (Trade and Investment, Agriculture, and Forestry)

The delegation also included senior officials, business leaders, diaspora representatives, media personnel, and cultural group members.

Taking to X, PM Christopher Luxon posted, “On top of that, I and our business delegation focused on enhancing New Zealand’s presence in key sectors, including education, technology, tourism, investment, manufacturing, food and primary industries.

“Unlocking new business opportunities, 33 MOUs and other commercial outcomes were progressed on the mission, reflecting the growing partnerships between New Zealand and Indian businesses,” PM Luxon added.

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