Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with New Zealand Opposition Leader Chris Hipkins on Saturday in Auckland, focusing on trade and people-to-people ties. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Key Discussions and Statements
In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with New Zealand Opposition Leader Rt Hon Chris Hipkins. They discussed a wide range of issues, including trade and people-to-people ties, reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations."
This meeting occurred during PM Modi's official visit to New Zealand, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 40 years since 1986.
MEA Briefing Highlights
In a special briefing, MEA Secretary (East) Rudrendra Tandon noted that India has always considered New Zealand a significant power in the Indo-Pacific region. "For India, this is a very significant visit. It's the first Prime Ministerial visit after 40 years. The last time an Indian Prime Minister visited was in 1986," Tandon said.
He added, "We have always considered New Zealand to be a very significant power in this part of the world. However, the Prime Minister acknowledged that the recent dynamics in the relationship over the last two years, a large part of the credit goes to Prime Minister Luxon, who since 2004 has been working hard to impart new energy to this relationship."
Action-Packed Program
Tandon described the morning program as devoted to work and advancing India-New Zealand ties. The day began with a traditional Maori welcome at Government House, followed by a formal welcome. Intensive discussions between the two Prime Ministers took place, both one-on-one and with delegations. Later, there was an interaction with the Indian and New Zealand business community, followed by a gala lunch with prominent attendees from Auckland.
