During big Auckland visit,India and New Zealand agreed to elevate their ties to strategic partnership,aiming to double annual trade to ₹35,000 crore by 2030. Indian PM Narendra Modi and New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon met Saturday,July 11,2026.
At an event with Indian diaspora,Modi called the partnership vessel for shared dreams. “Waka is not merely a boat. It is a symbol of shared journey. India–New Zealand Waka is ready to embark on a new voyage together.” This metaphor captured collaborative spirit both nations want.
Meeting led to 18 outcomes,with ten formal agreements. These included a future cooperation roadmap,maritime collaboration framework in Indo-Pacific,and a logistics support pact between Indian Navy and New Zealand Defence Force. Both countries committed to stronger strategic ties amid regional challenges.
Modi's visit first by Indian PM to New Zealand in 40 years,following recent India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement . Part of broader tour aimed at strengthening Indo-Pacific ties,especially with China's growing assertiveness.
In talks with business leaders,Modi stressed economic engagement,making several trade-boosting suggestions. Secretary (East),Ministry of External Affairs,Rudrendra Tandon,said discussions focused on advancing trade and economic cooperation .
Beyond trade,leaders discussed enhanced defence ties,naval exercises and military dialogues. Both nations committed to a “free,open,peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.” Joint statement announced annual Maritime Security Dialogue and Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism.
Luxon praised India's progress under Modi,noting 250 million people lifted from poverty and middle class growth projected from 440 million to 750 million by decade's end. Economic shift seen as key to strengthening ties.
Historical context acknowledged,with nods to former New Zealand PM David Lange,who reshaped relations in 1980s. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh noted Lange's lasting impact,remembering his rapport with Indian leaders.
As Modi wrapped up visit,he emphasized cooperation in tackling global challenges,especially terrorism and UN reforms. Confident India and New Zealand will face these challenges together,reinforcing roles as reliable partners worldwide…
