Punjab Newsline | Auckland
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held high-level bilateral talks in Auckland on Friday, resulting in 18 major decisions and the signing of 10 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). The two leaders elevated India–New Zealand relations to the level of a Strategic Partnership and outlined an ambitious roadmap to deepen economic and strategic cooperation.
Both countries set a target to double bilateral trade by 2030 to nearly ₹35,000 crore. Addressing the joint media interaction, PM Modi said India and New Zealand had successfully concluded a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in a record nine months, describing it as a milestone in bilateral relations.
Modi also announced that New Zealand will invest $20 billion (around ₹1.72 lakh crore) in India over the next 15 years, supporting the country's 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision and expanding cooperation across key sectors.
The Prime Minister arrived in New Zealand as the final leg of his July 6–11, three-nation tour and is scheduled to depart for New Delhi later on Friday. The visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in nearly 40 years, with the last visit taking place in 1986 by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
Prime Minister Luxon hailed the breakthrough in bilateral ties, noting that many had believed an FTA between the two countries was impossible. "People said for years that India and New Zealand could never achieve an FTA, but Prime Minister Modi and I have proved them wrong," he said.
Praising the Indian community, Luxon said there was no need to travel to Delhi or Mumbai to witness India's entrepreneurial spirit because "that energy is right here." He also commended the dedication and hard work of Indians, saying many take on multiple jobs to build a better future.
During a gala lunch in Auckland, Luxon recalled a memorable street cricket match with children from Delhi's STAIRS Foundation. He shared that cricket remains a special bond between India and New Zealand and humorously recounted how former New Zealand cricketer Ross Taylor was bowled by an 11-year-old Indian child bowling at nearly 110 kmph, drawing laughter from the audience.
