New Zealand and India forge strategic partnership, aim to double trade by 2030

New Zealand and India have forged a strategic partnership, a significant upgrade in their bilateral relationship marked by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced the elevation of ties, emphasizing a shared goal to double trade between the two countries by 2030. This ambitious target is projected to stimulate economic growth in New Zealand, leading to increased job creation and higher wages for its citizens.

During Modi's visit, leaders engaged in extensive discussions covering trade, investment, defense, security, agriculture technology, sports, education, tourism, and cultural exchanges. The agreement to establish a Strategic Partnership signifies a new era in India-New Zealand relations, with both nations committing to enhanced cooperation across various sectors of mutual interest. The early implementation of their existing Free Trade Agreement was also highlighted as a priority.

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New Zealand and India have agreed a new deal that builds on our free trade agreement. With Prime Minister @narendramodi here in New Zealand, we've lifted our relationship to a Strategic Partnership, with a plan to double trade between our countries by 2030 - meaning more money flowing back into Kiwi communities, creating jobs and boosting wages here at home.

The leaders witnessed the signing of numerous Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements. These span critical areas such as defense and maritime security, hydrography, sports, disaster management, dairy, tourism, maritime heritage, culture, food technology, and ocean research. Prime Minister Modi expressed optimism about the future, stating that both countries will advance collaboratively with clear objectives and tangible outcomes.

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Held extensive and fruitful talks with PM Luxon in Auckland this morning. His own visit to India last year energised our bilateral partnership and my visit today, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 4 decades, has added further momentum to the India-New Zealand friendship. We have decided to elevate our ties to a Strategic Partnership. We will move forward across every sector with clear goals and concrete outcomes.