Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with New Zealand's opposition leader Chris Hipkins in New Delhi on Wednesday, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and regional cooperation. The talks covered trade, defense, and people-to-people ties, according to official sources.
Key Discussion Points
During the meeting, Modi and Hipkins discussed enhancing cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and renewable energy. The leaders also exchanged views on the situation in the Indo-Pacific region and the importance of a rules-based order.
Chris Hipkins, who leads the New Zealand Labour Party, was on a visit to India to engage with political leaders and business figures. He earlier met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and other officials.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
India and New Zealand share a comprehensive partnership, with trade reaching $1.5 billion in 2022-23. The two countries have been working on a free trade agreement, and Hipkins expressed optimism about progress. “We discussed ways to deepen economic cooperation and explore new avenues for investment,” Hipkins said after the meeting.
The opposition leader also appreciated India's role in the region and its commitment to multilateralism. Modi reiterated India's support for a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Regional and Global Issues
The leaders touched upon global challenges such as climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic recovery. They agreed on the need for collaborative efforts to address these issues. Hipkins also congratulated India on its successful G20 presidency.
The meeting lasted about 45 minutes and was described as “warm and productive” by sources. This was the first high-level interaction between the two leaders.
