Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday described the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a historic milestone in bilateral relations, thanking New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his government for concluding the agreement in a short span.
Addressing delegation-level talks in Auckland, Prime Minister Modi said his visit—the first by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years—had infused new momentum into bilateral ties and reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to deepen their partnership.
“It gives me great pleasure that an Indian Prime Minister has visited New Zealand after 40 years. By organising an event in your economic capital, you have created an opportunity to infuse new strength into the relationship between India and New Zealand,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the warmth extended by the people of New Zealand made the visit a defining moment in bilateral ties.
Referring to the recently concluded FTA, PM Modi said the agreement marked a new chapter in the relationship. He credited Prime Minister Luxon’s leadership for the swift conclusion of negotiations, noting that the process began during the New Zealand Prime Minister’s visit to India.
“When you visited India, the FTA process began. The way New Zealand came together to bring the agreement to fruition in such a short time is remarkable. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to your leadership, your government and your team for this achievement,” he said.
Recalling Prime Minister Luxon’s visit to India during the Holi festival last year, PM Modi said it had added “new colours” to bilateral relations.
“Today, we are binding our relationship together through a Strategic Partnership. This milestone will inspire us to move forward with greater energy and confidence,” he added.
Highlighting shared democratic values, PM Modi described India and New Zealand as natural partners and said their cooperation as maritime nations strengthens the Indo-Pacific region.
Expressing confidence in the future of the partnership, he said the two countries could make a meaningful contribution to global peace, stability and security.
Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to interact with leading business and sports personalities and address a large gathering of the Indian diaspora, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday at the invitation of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The visit follows the signing of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement in April this year and is expected to provide fresh momentum to trade, investment and broader bilateral cooperation. The two leaders had earlier held bilateral talks in New Delhi on March 17, 2025, during Prime Minister Luxon’s official visit to India.
-ANI
