New Zealand and India Forge Strategic Partnership on PM Modi's Auckland Visit

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hailed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Auckland as a "historic" milestone, noting it is the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited the country in four decades. The two nations announced the establishment of a Strategic Partnership during delegation-level talks.

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I think 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 to next in this relationship and how we broaden that out. I know 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.

This new framework is designed to expand cooperation beyond the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signaling a significant new phase in India-New Zealand relations. "Today's focus is about more than just the FTA. It's about where we go to next in this relationship and how we broaden that out," Luxon stated. He expressed pride in announcing the strategic partnership, which he believes will provide a more comprehensive framework for continued expansion of ties.

Luxon recalled his own visit to India last year and expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Modi's personal efforts in strengthening bilateral ties. "It is a pleasure and honour to host you here today. It's a truly historic event," Luxon said, emphasizing the significance of the visit. He thanked Modi for his contributions to the relationship, referencing the warm hospitality he received during his trip to India in 2025.

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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.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday and was welcomed by Prime Minister Luxon. This visit, occurring after the signing of an FTA in April, is expected to further boost trade and bilateral relations. The two leaders had previously met in New Delhi on March 17, 2025, during Luxon's official visit to India. Later on Saturday, Prime Minister Modi was scheduled to engage with prominent business and sports figures and address a large gathering of the Indian diaspora.

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When I visited India last year, you welcomed me and my delegation with great warmth and tremendous generosity, and I'm therefore delighted to welcome you here. Thank you for the relationship and thank you for what you've put into it personally.