Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Maori business leaders in Auckland on Saturday, highlighting that shared values of respect for nature, community, and sustainability between India and the indigenous Maori people can create a unique model for inclusive global trade. Speaking at the Business and Sports Engagement event, Modi noted that special provisions have been carved out for Maori businesses in the newly concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and New Zealand.
Special Provisions for Maori in FTA
"I express gratitude, especially to Maori business leaders. India's culture and Maori tradition both have deep respect for nature, community and sustainability. Even in our FTA, opportunities for Maori businesses have been given a special place. Connecting our shared values, we can build a new model for inclusive and sustainable trade," the Prime Minister said.
Modi praised both indigenous and Kiwi business communities, stating that India-New Zealand ties are being elevated to a strategic partnership. The Maori business sector operates across commercial and export markets, historically strong in agribusiness, fisheries, and forestry, but now expanding into tourism, real estate, professional services, and green energy. This economy is intergenerational, sustainability-focused, and community-driven, dealing in dairy, sheep, beef, and kiwifruit, with a cornerstone entity Moana New Zealand managing fisheries. Maori enterprises rely heavily on international exports, with key trading partners across Asia.
Traditional Welcome and Talks
Earlier in the day, PM Modi received a traditional Maori 'powhiri' ceremonial welcome at the Government House in Auckland, which he described as deeply moving. "Honoured to receive a ceremonial welcome at Government House in Auckland. The traditional Maori powhiri was a moving reflection of New Zealand's rich heritage and traditions," Modi shared on X.
The Prime Minister also held delegation-level talks with his New Zealand counterpart, Christopher Luxon. Modi hailed the conclusion of the India-New Zealand FTA in record time and noted the historic significance of his visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades. "It gives me great pleasure that an Indian Prime Minister has visited New Zealand after 40 years. By organising an event in your economic capital, you have created an opportunity to infuse new strength into the relationship between India and New Zealand. I am deeply grateful," Modi said.
Swift FTA Achievement
Expressing gratitude to Luxon's leadership for fast-tracking the trade pact, Modi added, "When you visited India, the FTA process began. The way all of New Zealand united to bring the FTA to fruition in such a short time, perhaps a global first for such a swift success, is remarkable. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to your leadership, your government and your team for this achievement."
Highlighting strategic alignment, Modi stated that India and New Zealand are natural partners bound by shared democratic values and common interests as maritime nations in the Indo-Pacific region. He expressed strong confidence that the enhanced partnership would meaningfully contribute to global peace, stability, and security.
Diaspora Engagement
Reflecting the deep living bridge between the two nations, PM Modi is scheduled to address a massive gathering of the Indian diaspora in Auckland later today, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday on an official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Luxon, where he was received with a warm embrace by the New Zealand leader.
