Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita met with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on the sidelines of the India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC) Summit 2025 in Auckland on Friday, where both leaders explored ways to enhance bilateral cooperation across a range of sectors.
In a post on X, Margherita expressed his appreciation for the meeting, stating:
“Honoured to call on Rt Hon @chrisluxonmp, New Zealand PM, on the sidelines of INZBC event. Explored ways to take forward the India-New Zealand partnership in strengthening our bilateral ties across various sectors.”
Earlier in the day, Margherita joined PM Luxon and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters in addressing the INZBC Summit, which was themed “Boardroom to Border Leadership Dialogue.” The minister spoke about the growing strategic and economic opportunities offered by India and ways to deepen bilateral cooperation.
“Discussed strategic, economic, and other opportunities that India presents today and ways to boost the India-New Zealand partnership. Also delighted to interact with the leading Business Community in New Zealand,” Margherita shared on X.
On Thursday, Margherita also held a meeting with New Zealand’s Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay to discuss advancing trade ties. He described the meeting as “fruitful” and focused on exploring pathways for enhancing trade collaboration between the two countries.
The Minister of State is currently on a two-day official visit to New Zealand. Upon his arrival in Auckland, he emphasized his eagerness to engage with New Zealand’s senior leaders, participate in the INZBC event, and interact with the Indian diaspora and business community.
Following his engagements in New Zealand, Margherita will travel to Fiji, where he will serve as the Guest of Honour at the Girmit Day ceremony, commemorating the contributions of Indian indentured laborers. During his Fiji visit, he is also scheduled to meet key political leaders.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit is part of India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with the Pacific region, which have been deepened through sustained bilateral engagements in recent years.
