New Zealand, India Forge Strategic Partnership During Modi’s Visit
At a glance
- New Zealand and India announced a “strategic partnership” on Saturday, encompassing defence and security, during a landmark visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hosted Modi, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to New Zealand in 40 years.
- Prime Minister Modi described the creation of the strategic partnership as a “milestone” that would inspire greater energy and confidence.
Story so far: New Zealand and India announced a “strategic partnership” on Saturday, encompassing defence and security, during a landmark visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hosted Modi, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to New Zealand in 40 years.
New Zealand and India announced a “strategic partnership” on Saturday, encompassing defence and security, during a landmark visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hosted Modi, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to New Zealand in 40 years.
Prime Minister Modi described the creation of the strategic partnership as a “milestone” that would inspire greater energy and confidence. The pact includes tighter defence cooperation, such as naval exercises, alongside stronger ties in trade, diplomacy, culture, sport, and science.
Both nations affirmed their shared interest in a “free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.” The leaders also discussed China’s recent ballistic missile test into the Pacific Ocean. Prime Minister Luxon highlighted New Zealand’s support for a growing “multi-lattice” of arrangements in defence and trade among like-minded countries in the region, aimed at driving prosperity through security.
Modi’s visit to New Zealand is part of a July 6-11 tour that also included stops in Indonesia and Australia. He is scheduled to address an Indian diaspora event in Auckland.






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