ew Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, on his first official visit to India, reinforced the deepening partnership between the two nations through a series of high-level meetings, trade negotiations, and strategic collaborations. Hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the visit saw a robust exchange on economic, defense, and regional security matters, alongside a commitment to expand people-to-people ties and enhance trade flows.
Accompanied by key ministers and a delegation comprising business leaders, community representatives, and cultural groups, Luxon was warmly received in New Delhi, where he laid a wreath at Raj Ghat and met with President Droupadi Murmu. Modi and Luxon held bilateral discussions focused on shared democratic values, maritime cooperation, and economic expansion, recognizing significant untapped potential in trade, security, and technological advancements.
A major highlight of the visit was Luxon’s keynote address at the Raisina Dialogue, where he emphasized the importance of a stable and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to freedom of navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The discussions yielded substantial agreements aimed at boosting trade and investment. The two nations launched negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement designed to unlock new economic opportunities and ensure mutually beneficial growth. The signing of the Authorized Economic Operators Mutual Recognition Arrangement will facilitate smoother trade by reducing barriers for trusted traders. Agreements on horticulture and forestry cooperation will enhance knowledge exchange, infrastructure development, and sustainable practices in both sectors.
Luxon and Modi also prioritized digital payment integration, fostering discussions on early implementation of collaborative frameworks. The leaders highlighted the crucial role of tourism in strengthening economic and cultural ties and endorsed updated air service agreements, encouraging airlines to launch direct flights between the two countries.
Defense and security cooperation took center stage with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation. The agreement will facilitate deeper military engagements, including joint exercises, officer training, and increased naval interactions. India welcomed New Zealand’s participation in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, and both leaders underscored the need for a coordinated approach to ensuring maritime security and protecting global trade routes.
Science and technology collaborations received a significant boost, with both countries agreeing to enhance research partnerships and commercialize emerging technologies. New Zealand pledged its continued support for India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance and joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. A future Memorandum of Cooperation on earthquake mitigation will establish stronger emergency response mechanisms between the two nations.
Education and workforce mobility were another focal point, with a commitment to expanding academic partnerships and facilitating greater movement of skilled professionals. The leaders agreed to launch negotiations on a mobility arrangement as part of the broader trade agreement talks. A refreshed Education Cooperation Arrangement will further strengthen ties between Indian and New Zealand institutions, while both governments pledged to address irregular migration challenges.
The two nations also deepened their cultural and sports partnerships, marking a century of sporting ties with upcoming “Sporting Unity” events in 2026. A newly signed Memorandum of Cooperation on Sports aims to enhance exchanges in cricket, hockey, and Olympic disciplines. The leaders acknowledged the growing global interest in Indian traditions such as yoga, music, and dance, and encouraged broader collaboration in the arts.
On the global stage, India and New Zealand reinforced their alignment on key geopolitical issues, supporting an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. New Zealand endorsed India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council and pledged stronger multilateral cooperation in combating terrorism. Both leaders called for an immediate, sustained crackdown on terrorism financing and the dismantling of cross-border extremist networks.
The discussions also covered conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Both leaders backed a just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on territorial integrity and UN principles. On Gaza, they welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement and called for a two-state solution, urging continued negotiations to establish a sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel.
As Luxon concluded his visit, he expressed deep appreciation for the hospitality extended by Modi and the Indian government. In a final gesture of strengthening ties, he invited Modi to undertake a reciprocal visit to New Zealand, setting the stage for continued collaboration across multiple domains.
