New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced that India and New Zealand have elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership following bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Auckland.
The new framework is expected to strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors and provide a broader foundation for expanding ties in the years ahead.
Describing PM Modi’s visit as a historic occasion, PM Luxon noted that it was the first official visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years. He said the visit marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations and reflected the growing momentum in cooperation between the two countries.
Recalling his own visit to India last year, PM Luxon thanked Prime Minister Modi for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He also acknowledged PM Modi’s personal commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, saying both leaders had made remarkable progress in a short period, particularly in advancing the trade agenda.
Prime Minister Luxon said the discussions in Auckland went beyond negotiations on the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), focusing instead on expanding cooperation across a wider range of sectors. He said the Strategic Partnership would provide a stronger framework to deepen collaboration and guide future engagement between the two nations.
Highlighting the economic potential of the relationship, PM Luxon said geographical distance was no obstacle to closer cooperation. He said the proposed FTA would boost trade and remove tariffs on 57 per cent of New Zealand’s exports to India from day one.
PM Modi and PM Luxon also exchanged key MoUs on defence, disaster management, tourism, sports and animal husbandry, further strengthening bilateral ties during PM Modi’s landmark visit.
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