New Delhi: India and New Zealand have elevated their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership following high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon in Auckland. Along with strengthening political and economic engagement, both countries have outlined an ambitious roadmap to significantly expand trade and cooperation over the next five years.
The leaders agreed to work towards doubling bilateral trade in goods and services to approximately ₹35,000 crore by 2030. The decision follows the recently signed India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which both sides hope will open new opportunities for businesses, investors, and exporters.
The summit resulted in 18 key outcomes, including the signing of 10 agreements covering sectors such as defence, maritime security, connectivity, education, technology, and economic collaboration. A structured roadmap was also finalised to guide cooperation across multiple sectors over the coming years.
Recognising the growing strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based maritime order. They agreed to launch a dedicated maritime security dialogue aimed at enhancing coordination, information sharing, and cooperation between their naval and security establishments. A reciprocal logistics support arrangement between the Indian Navy and the New Zealand Defence Force also forms part of the new framework.
Prime Minister Modi said the elevation of ties reflects the growing trust between the two democracies and creates a stronger foundation for future cooperation. He noted that both nations, as maritime partners, have a shared responsibility to contribute towards peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
The discussions also covered several international developments, including the evolving situation in West Asia. Both leaders expressed concern over escalating tensions in the region and called for restraint, dialogue, and adherence to international law. They underlined the importance of ensuring uninterrupted global trade through vital maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
On the conflict in Ukraine, the two Prime Ministers reiterated support for peaceful resolution through diplomacy while acknowledging the humanitarian and economic consequences of the prolonged war.
The joint discussions also focused on strengthening resilient global supply chains and energy security. Both countries recognised the need for stable commercial networks and highlighted the impact of global disruptions on economies, particularly small island nations in the Pacific region.
India and New Zealand also reaffirmed their shared stand against terrorism in all forms. The two leaders condemned recent terrorist attacks, including the incident in Pahalgam and the attack near Delhi’s Red Fort last year, stressing that those responsible must be brought to justice. They emphasised stronger international cooperation to dismantle terror financing networks and eliminate safe havens for extremist groups.
The leaders further voiced support for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, including expansion of the UN Security Council, arguing that global institutions must better reflect present-day geopolitical realities.
With strategic, economic, and security cooperation receiving renewed momentum, both countries described the upgraded partnership as a significant step towards building a stronger, long-term relationship based on shared democratic values and common regional interests.
