Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his New Zealand counterpart, Christopher Luxon, held a bilateral meeting on Monday, during which they witnessed the signing of multiple agreements aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations.
Speaking at a joint press conference, PM Modi highlighted the significant contributions of the Indian community in New Zealand’s economic and social development. He announced that both countries would work on formulating an agreement to address illegal migration and facilitate the mobility of skilled workers.
“The Indian community residing in New Zealand is playing a positive role in economic and social progress. We have decided to work on an agreement that will tackle illegal migration and simplify the movement of skilled professionals,” Modi stated.
PM Modi also praised Luxon’s close connection with the Indian community in New Zealand and his recent celebration of Holi. He expressed happiness at having a “young leader” like Luxon as the chief guest for the 2025 Raisina Dialogue.
“We welcome Prime Minister Luxon and his delegation to India. His warmth towards the Indian diaspora in New Zealand is evident, as a community delegation has also accompanied him. We are pleased to have him as the chief guest at the Raisina Dialogue,” Modi added.
Before the press conference, the two leaders engaged in delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House, focusing on economic cooperation, trade expansion, and regional security. The visit has also set the stage for negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and New Zealand.
During his visit, Luxon emphasized New Zealand’s commitment to deepening ties with India and described the Indian government as “incredibly generous and very welcoming.” He underscored the importance of economic and cultural collaboration, bringing the largest-ever business and community delegation to accompany a New Zealand Prime Minister on an official visit.
Luxon, who arrived in New Delhi on Sunday, also met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
As part of his visit, Luxon will serve as the chief guest and keynote speaker at the Raisina Dialogue, India’s leading conference on geopolitics and geo-economics, which will be inaugurated by PM Modi.
