India and New Zealand to formulate an agreement to deal with the issue of illegal migration.” PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon convened at Hyderabad House on Monday to strengthen bilateral ties between India and New Zealand. Luxon’s official visit to India included discussions on various topics, such as economic cooperation, trade expansion, and regional security.
During a joint press statement, PM Modi extended a warm welcome to Luxon and his delegation, highlighting Luxon’s connection with India and his recent Holi celebrations. Modi also expressed his pleasure in having Luxon as the chief guest at the upcoming Raisina Dialogue 2025.
A key outcome of the meeting was the commitment of both nations to formulate an agreement to address the issue of illegal migration. PM Modi emphasized India and New Zealand’s shared vision for a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, reiterating India’s commitment to development over expansionism. He also welcomed New Zealand’s participation in the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative.
Luxon, who arrived in India on Sunday for a five-day visit, was received with a warm reception. His visit signifies the growing momentum in India-New Zealand relations, with both leaders exploring new avenues for collaboration, including potential negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to enhance economic engagement.
On Monday morning, Luxon paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, recognizing India’s rich historical and cultural heritage. In his remarks to the media, he praised India’s hospitality and generosity, expressing his commitment to deepening ties between the two nations. He also underscored the significance of his delegation, which includes business and community leaders, in strengthening India-New Zealand relations.
Acknowledging the crucial role of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand, Luxon noted that Indian-Kiwis constitute the third-largest ethnic group in the country. He recognized their contributions as a vital source of skilled migrants and international students, as well as their impact across multiple sectors, further strengthening the people-to-people connections between the two nations.
During his visit, Luxon engaged with community and business leaders, reinforcing the cultural and economic partnerships that bind India and New Zealand. He also met with renowned cricketers Ajaz Patel and Ross Taylor, symbolic figures of the deep-rooted sporting ties between the two countries.
In addition to his discussions with PM Modi, Luxon held talks with India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, on ways to enhance diplomatic and economic relations. As part of his visit, Luxon is set to deliver a keynote address at the Raisina Dialogue, India’s leading conference on geopolitics and geo-economics, where he will address critical issues related to global security and economic collaboration.
Following his meeting with PM Modi, Luxon is expected to witness the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) at Hyderabad House, solidifying the partnership between the two nations. He is also scheduled to visit Rashtrapati Bhavan for a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu.
India and New Zealand have shared diplomatic relations since 1952, with ties based on common Commonwealth connections, democratic values, and mutual aspirations for economic growth and regional stability. The continued dialogue between PM Modi and PM Luxon marks a significant step forward in their bilateral relationship, paving the way for further cooperation in the years ahead.
