Recently, the New Zealand Prime Minister  is on an official visit to India marking his first trip to the country as Prime Minister. 

India and NewZealand Relations

• Historical Ties: India and New Zealand share historical ties as former British colonies and Commonwealth members. 
• Cultural Ties: Indian diaspora in New Zealand: 2,40,000, playing a key role in fostering ties.
• Defence & Security Cooperation: Comprehensive Pact signed to strengthen defence and security ties. Focus on maintaining peace & stability in the Indo-Pacific. New Zealand supports a rules-based order but is not part of the Quad.
• Security Concerns: India raised concerns over separatist groups misusing democratic freedoms. New Zealand reaffirmed commitment to addressing India’s security concerns. Both leaders condemned terrorism in all forms, referencing:
  • Christchurch attack (2019)
  • Mumbai 26/11 attacks
• Economic Collaboration: Discussions on expanding trade and investment in key sectors:
  • Technology
  • Agriculture
  • Renewable energy
• Trade Agreement: New Zealand expressed interest in a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, but progress remains slow.
• Alignment: Both nations, as responsible stakeholders in the Indo-Pacific, are committed to climate change action, sustainable development, and maritime security, with a shared focus on upholding international norms and multilateral cooperation.
• Bilateral Cooperation: Steady alignment in defence, security, counterterrorism, and economic ties. India and New Zealand collaborate within international organizations to promote global governance.
• Expanding Areas: Luxon’s visit highlights growing bilateral ties in trade & investment, education & research, tourism & sports, and cultural exchanges, strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors.

Conclusion

India and New Zealand are deepening their strategic partnership through enhanced cooperation in trade, security, and multilateral engagements. Their shared commitment to a stable Indo-Pacific and global governance strengthens bilateral ties.

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