New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a community event in Auckland, highlighting the newly signed India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and the contribution of the Indian diaspora.

Christopher Luxon Celebrates India Partnership, Commends Modi’s Leadership at Auckland Event

Auckland, New Zealand: New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hailed the growing relationship between India and New Zealand during a community event in Auckland, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “one of the most important leaders of our time” and a “true friend” of New Zealand.

Addressing members of the Indian community, Luxon highlighted the significance of the recently signed India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which he said would create new opportunities for businesses and strengthen ties between the two countries.

The New Zealand leader also praised the contributions of the Indian diaspora, calling the friendship between the two nations “truly extraordinary.”

Luxon Highlights Landmark India–New Zealand Trade Deal

Speaking at the event, Christopher Luxon said the newly signed India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement marked a historic moment in bilateral relations.

“We signed the New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement, opening a market of 1.4 billion people to our Kiwi exporters and also creating opportunities for Indian businesses here in New Zealand,” Luxon said.

Emphasising the broader significance of the agreement, the Prime Minister noted that India is much more than a trading partner for New Zealand.

“India is not just a country we trade with; it is a country that we grow with. It is a country we trust,” he added.

The agreement is expected to deepen economic cooperation between the two nations and create new avenues for trade, investment and business collaboration.

‘Many Said It Wasn’t Possible’

Luxon acknowledged that negotiations over an India–New Zealand trade pact had faced scepticism in the past.

“For many years, people said an India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement wasn’t possible. Well, Prime Minister Modi and I did it. We got that deal done in record time,” he said.

The New Zealand Prime Minister credited the partnership between the two governments for bringing the agreement to fruition and described it as an important step in strengthening bilateral ties.

The deal is expected to benefit exporters, businesses and consumers in both countries by improving market access and encouraging investment.

Praise for the Indian Community in New Zealand

During his address, Luxon also paid tribute to New Zealand’s Indian community, describing its contribution to the country as significant and inspiring.

“I hope that every single one of you is incredibly proud of the enormous contribution our Kiwi Indian community makes to New Zealand,” he told the audience.

New Zealand is home to a rapidly growing Indian diaspora that has become an integral part of the country’s economic, cultural and social fabric. Community leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals of Indian origin continue to play a key role across multiple sectors.

Luxon’s remarks underscored the importance of people-to-people ties in shaping the broader relationship between the two nations.

Luxon Praises Modi’s Journey and Leadership

In one of the most notable moments of the event, Luxon praised Narendra Modi’s political journey and leadership on the global stage.

“He rose from humble beginnings to lead the world’s largest democracy. He has helped lift hundreds of millions of people out of poverty. He is one of the most important leaders of our time and a true friend to New Zealand,” Luxon said.

The New Zealand Prime Minister also highlighted the strength of the friendship between the two countries, describing the relationship and the Indian community’s role in it as “something truly extraordinary.”

The comments drew applause from attendees at the Auckland gathering.

Strengthening India–New Zealand Relations

Modi’s visit to New Zealand comes amid efforts by both countries to expand cooperation in areas such as trade, technology, education, agriculture and innovation.

The newly signed trade agreement is expected to serve as a cornerstone of this partnership, paving the way for deeper economic engagement and stronger diplomatic ties.

Officials from both countries have repeatedly emphasised the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges and creating opportunities for future growth.

Conclusion

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon used the Auckland community event to celebrate the growing partnership between India and New Zealand, highlighting the significance of the newly signed Free Trade Agreement and praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Luxon also acknowledged the contribution of New Zealand’s Indian community, describing the friendship between the two countries as extraordinary and expressing confidence in an even closer relationship in the years ahead.

Key Takeaways

• Christopher Luxon praised the newly signed India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.
• He said the agreement opens opportunities for exporters and businesses in both countries.
• Luxon described India as a nation that New Zealand “grows with” and “trusts.”
• The New Zealand Prime Minister called Narendra Modi “one of the most important leaders of our time.”
• He also commended the contribution of New Zealand’s Indian community.