During PM Modi’s first historic visit to New Zealand in 40 years, both the countries have announced to establish a strategic partnership. Describing the visit as an important milestone, PM Christopher Luxon stressed on further broadening relations with India.
auckland [न्यूजीलैंड]July 11 (ANI): New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Saturday (local time) described Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, which is the first by an Indian prime minister to the country in 40 years, as a “historic” milestone.
There will be strategic partnership between India and New Zealand
During delegation-level talks in Auckland, Lakson announced that the two countries will establish a strategic partnership to provide a comprehensive framework to expand cooperation beyond the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signaling a new phase in India-New Zealand relations. The New Zealand PM said, “I think we have made tremendous progress in a very short time on the trade agenda. But the focus today is about much more than just the FTA. It is about where we go next in this relationship and how we broaden it. I am very proud to announce that we will create a strategic partnership that will give more structure and breadth to the relationship so that we can continue to expand from here.”
PM Laxan expressed gratitude to India
PM Lakson recalled his visit to India last year and thanked the Indian Prime Minister for his personal efforts in strengthening relations between the two countries. He said, “It is my pleasure and honor to host you here today. This is truly a historic event, the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years. This visit is also an important milestone in New Zealand-India relations.”
Recalling his visit to India in 2025, the Prime Minister of New Zealand expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He said, “When I came to India last year, you welcomed me and my delegation with great warmth and tremendous generosity, and so I am delighted to welcome you here. Thank you for this relationship and for what you have personally contributed to it.”
PM Modi’s busy schedule
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), later today, the Prime Minister is scheduled to interact with prominent business and sports personalities. Reflecting the strong people-to-people ties between India and New Zealand, the Prime Minister will also address a large gathering of the Indian diaspora.
PM Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday and was welcomed by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, with whom he shared a warm hug. This visit is taking place on the invitation of Prime Minister Luxon.
Following the signing of a free trade agreement in April this year, the visit is expected to serve as a catalyst to bring further momentum in trade and bilateral relations. The two leaders had earlier held a bilateral meeting in New Delhi during the official visit of Prime Minister Lakson to India on March 17, 2025. (ANI)
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