Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a community event in Auckland on July 11, 2026, highlighted the increasing collaboration between India and New Zealand in the space sector. He noted that New Zealand's technology contributed to the success of India's Chandrayaan mission, which landed on the Moon's south pole. "When India's Chandrayaan landed on the Moon's south pole, all of New Zealand was rejoicing," Modi said, adding that a New Zealand space company has collaborated with India on several occasions and that both nations are working to take this cooperation further.
Trade Agreement and Economic Growth
Modi emphasized that the trade agreement between India and New Zealand will accelerate India's journey toward becoming a developed nation while boosting businesses in both countries. He highlighted India's economic achievements, stating that India is the world's fastest-growing major economy, the largest vaccine producer, the second-largest mobile manufacturer, the second-largest telecom market, the second-largest wheat producer, the largest milk producer, the second-largest fish producer, and the third-largest automobile market. India is also soon to become the world's third-largest renewable energy producer and has joined the ranks of leading nations in solar energy capacity.
Cultural Similarities and Indigenous Communities
Modi also drew parallels between the indigenous cultures of India and New Zealand, praising the Maori community and their Haka performance. He described the Haka as embodying courage, self-respect, reverence for ancestors, and collective strength. Modi referenced the Maori concept of 'Manaakitanga'—showing respect and care—and compared it to India's ethos of 'Atithi Devo Bhava' (the guest is God). "The words, the setting, the attire, and the languages may differ, but the sentiment is exactly the same," he said.
Digital and Startup Ecosystem
Modi noted that India is the world's third-largest startup ecosystem and that dozens of countries are showing interest in India's digital public infrastructure sector. He also highlighted India's achievements in mobile data consumption and manufacturing.
Community and Diplomatic Relations
In a post on X, Modi expressed gratitude to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for joining the community programme, calling it a reflection of the warmth Luxon has for India and the Indian community. Modi described the Indian community in New Zealand as one of the strongest pillars of the bilateral friendship.
