New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Saturday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit as a historic milestone, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years, and announced that the two countries would establish a Strategic Partnership to deepen bilateral cooperation.
Speaking during delegation-level talks in Auckland, Luxon said the Strategic Partnership would provide a broader framework for expanding ties beyond the recently concluded India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
“We’ve made tremendous progress in a very short period of time on the trade agenda. But today’s focus is about more than just the FTA. It’s about where we go next in this relationship and how we broaden it,” he said.
Announcing the new initiative, the New Zealand Prime Minister said the Strategic Partnership would give bilateral ties greater structure and momentum for future cooperation.
“We are very proud to announce that we will be forming a Strategic Partnership, which will give the relationship more framework and breadth for us to continue to expand as we go forward from here,” he added.
Calling Prime Minister Modi’s visit a significant moment in bilateral relations, Luxon said it reflected the growing engagement between the two countries.
“It is a pleasure and honour to host you here today. It’s a truly historic event, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years. This visit is also a significant milestone in the New Zealand-India relationship,” he said.
Recalling his visit to India in 2025, Luxon thanked Prime Minister Modi for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation and acknowledged his personal role in strengthening bilateral ties.
“When I visited India last year, you welcomed me and my delegation with great warmth and tremendous generosity. I’m delighted to welcome you here. Thank you for the relationship and thank you for what you’ve put into it personally,” he said.
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 impetus 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
