Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met in a bilateral meeting at Hyderabad House on Monday, strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries. The visit is in line with India and New Zealand’s efforts to strengthen trade relations, regional security, and cultural ties.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) posted about the meeting, saying, “PM Narendra Modi warmly welcomed PM Christopher Luxon of New Zealand at Hyderabad House today. Extensive discussions on – bilateral relationship lie ahead.”
Strengthening India-New Zealand Relations
Luxon landed in India on Sunday for a five-day official visit. Earlier on Monday, he visited Rajghat to pay his respects to Mahatma Gandhi, highlighting the historical and cultural connections between the two nations.
In the meeting, the two leaders shared talks on economic cooperation and the deepening of trade. The highlight of the visit is the signing of negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is geared towards strengthening trade between the two economies.
Showcasing his enthusiasm for India-New Zealand relations, Luxon said, “The Indian government has been ridiculously generous and very welcoming.” He added that he traveled with the biggest-ever business and community delegation to accompany a New Zealand Prime Minister on an overseas visit.
Widening Economic and Cultural Ties
Luxon highlighted the important contributions of the Indian community in New Zealand, where Indian-Kiwis are the third-largest ethnic population in the country. They also constitute the largest number of skilled migrants and the second-largest contributors to international student enrollments.
Meeting with business and community leaders while on his visit, Luxon emphasized trade growth as a major priority. He was also spotted with cricketers Ross Taylor and Ajaz Patel, again reflecting the strong sporting and cultural connections between the two countries.
Strategic Talks and Future Engagements
On Sunday, Luxon had a meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who recognized his dedication to enhancing India-New Zealand relations. Luxon will also be the chief guest and keynote speaker at the Raisina Dialogue, India’s leading geopolitics and geo-economics conference, which will be opened by PM Modi.
After his talks with PM Modi, Luxon is likely to be present at the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) at Hyderabad House and then proceed to Rashtrapati Bhavan to call on President Droupadi Murmu.
India and New Zealand, whose diplomatic relations started in 1952, are further strengthening their common Commonwealth background, democratic tradition, and determination to economic growth and regional stability.