Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a historic milestone in bilateral relations during his official visit to Auckland. The visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades, marked a new chapter in the partnership between the two countries as they agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, defence, investment and regional security.
Meeting New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Modi said the recently concluded FTA would provide fresh momentum to economic ties and significantly expand opportunities for businesses, investors and exporters in both countries. The two leaders also announced a long-term Strategic Partnership Roadmap to 2030 aimed at strengthening collaboration across multiple sectors.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to increasing bilateral trade and investment while enhancing cooperation in critical minerals, agriculture, education, technology, renewable energy and innovation. They also agreed to strengthen supply chains and encourage greater collaboration between businesses and startups from both nations.
Defence and security cooperation featured prominently during the discussions. India and New Zealand signed agreements to expand collaboration in maritime security, defence exchanges and Indo-Pacific cooperation, reflecting their shared commitment to maintaining a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi also addressed members of the Indian diaspora and business leaders, highlighting the strong people-to-people relationship between the two countries. He said the growing Indian community in New Zealand continues to play a vital role in strengthening cultural and economic ties while contributing to New Zealand’s development.
Analysts believe the visit represents a significant milestone in India-New Zealand relations, with the Free Trade Agreement expected to boost bilateral commerce, attract new investments and create opportunities across manufacturing, services, education and agriculture. The expanded strategic partnership is also expected to enhance cooperation on regional and global issues, further reinforcing the relationship between the two Indo-Pacific democracies.
