Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hailed the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a historic milestone in bilateral ties, reaffirming both countries' commitment to strengthening their partnership.
During his visit to New Zealand, Modi thanked Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for the swift conclusion of the trade pact.
"This marks a historic milestone in our relationship, one that revitalises our ties and reaffirms our commitment to friendship. When you visited India, the FTA process began. The way all of New Zealand united to bring the FTA to fruition in such a short time, perhaps a global first for such a swift success, is remarkable. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to your leadership, your government and your team for this achievement," Modi said.
Recalling Luxon's visit to India during the Holi festival last year, Modi said it had added "new colours" to the bilateral relationship.
"Today, we are taking our ties to a new level by forging a Strategic Partnership. This milestone will inspire us to move forward with greater energy and confidence," he said.
Highlighting the shared values that underpin the relationship, Modi said India and New Zealand are natural partners as vibrant democracies and maritime nations in the Indo-Pacific. He also expressed confidence that the two countries could make a meaningful contribution to global peace, stability and security.
"We can act as a catalyst for peace, advocating for peace and working towards global well-being through peace," he said.
Meanwhile, Luxon described Modi's visit as a "historic" milestone and announced that the two nations would establish a Strategic Partnership to provide a broader framework for expanding cooperation beyond the recently concluded FTA.
“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," he said.
Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday on the final leg of his three-nation tour. He is the first Indian prime minister to visit New Zealand in four decades.
During the visit, Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Luxon on expanding economic, trade and commercial cooperation. He will also address members of the Indian diaspora at a community event.
