PM Modi, New Zealand’s Christopher Luxon Discuss Trade, Security, and Stronger Ties

India and New Zealand push for deeper economic cooperation, FTA talks, and regional security collaboration.

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a key bilateral meeting at Hyderabad House on Monday, focusing on strengthening trade, security, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Luxon, who arrived in India on Sunday for a five-day official visit, began his engagements by paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. The visit comes amid growing efforts to enhance economic cooperation, with both leaders discussing trade expansion and regional security. Notably, the two countries have announced negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signaling a significant step in their economic relationship.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, shared on social media: "PM Narendra Modi warmly welcomed PM Christopher Luxon of New Zealand at Hyderabad House today. Extensive discussions on bilateral relations lie ahead."

During his visit, Luxon highlighted New Zealand’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, acknowledging the warm reception from the Indian government. He emphasized that his delegation, consisting of top business and community leaders, is the largest ever to accompany a New Zealand Prime Minister on a foreign trip—underlining the importance of deepening economic and cultural relations.

Luxon also recognized the contributions of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand, noting that Indian-Kiwis form the third-largest ethnic community in the country, with a significant presence in business, education, and skilled labor sectors. He engaged with business leaders and prominent personalities, including cricketers Ajaz Patel and Ross Taylor, reflecting the strong cultural connections between the two nations.

On Sunday, Luxon met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who welcomed New Zealand’s commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation. Luxon is also set to be the keynote speaker at the Raisina Dialogue, India’s leading forum on geopolitics and geo-economics, which will be inaugurated by PM Modi.

Following his discussions with Modi, Luxon is expected to oversee the exchange of several MoUs at Hyderabad House before heading to Rashtrapati Bhavan to meet President Droupadi Murmu. With diplomatic ties dating back to 1952, India and New Zealand continue to collaborate on shared values, economic progress, and regional stability.