New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luckson has expressed his commitment to take his country’s relations with India to new heights. He described the Indian government as “extremely generous and very welcoming”. Luckson said that he has visited India with the largest delegation ever, which includes business and community representatives.
Strengthening relations with India
PM Luckson shared a video on his official social media account ‘X’, in which he said, “We are seeing an Indian government that is extremely generous and welcoming. This shows that they also want to deepen this relationship.”
He further said, “That is why we have brought the largest delegation ever, which includes business and community representatives. We want this relationship to be as broad as possible, because it will bring huge economic benefits to both countries. Our goal is to strengthen New Zealand’s economy and expand business opportunities.”
Contribution of Indian community is commendable
Luckson praised the Indian community in New Zealand and said that they are making a significant contribution to the country’s economy and society. He said, “The Indian community is the third largest ethnic group in New Zealand. India is the largest source of skilled immigrants for us and the second largest source of international students.”
Luckson met business and community leaders during his visit to India. During this, famous cricketers Ejaz Patel and Ross Taylor were also seen with him.
Main objectives of the India tour
PM Luckson arrived in the Indian capital New Delhi on March 17. The main objective of his five-day visit is to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. During this visit, he will meet prominent business leaders and government officials.
Luckson will attend the 10th edition of the major geopolitical and geo-economic conference ‘Raisina Dialogue’ to be held in India as the chief guest and deliver the keynote address. Posting about this, he wrote, “The Indian community is extremely important to New Zealand, and I feel proud of their contribution.”
India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) launched
Soon after arriving in India, PM Luckson announced that India and New Zealand have agreed to begin negotiations on a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA).
On Sunday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met the New Zealand Prime Minister and appreciated his commitment to further strengthen India-New Zealand’s long-standing relationship. Jaishankar wrote on social media, “Glad to meet New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luckson. I appreciate his resolve to further deepen our long-standing relationship.”
PM Luckson also reiterated the shared objective of ensuring stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region between India and New Zealand. He said, “India and New Zealand share a similar vision to make the Indo-Pacific region stable, secure and prosperous. S. Jaishankar and I had a discussion on this subject.”
Important meeting with PM Modi
During Luckson’s visit to India, he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House. In this meeting, various bilateral agreements will be discussed between the two leaders. After this, PM Lakson will also meet President Draupadi Murmu.
During this visit, new opportunities for trade and investment between India and New Zealand will be discussed. Both countries have also announced the start of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Historical background of India-New Zealand relations
Diplomatic relations between India and New Zealand were established in 1952. Both countries are members of the Commonwealth and are working together for economic development and prosperity by adopting a democratic system of governance.
It has become clear from this visit that India and New Zealand are looking forward to further strengthening their bilateral relations. This visit of PM Lakson can prove to be helpful in opening new doors of trade, education and cultural cooperation for both the countries.
This strengthening relationship of New Zealand with India will benefit both the countries at the trade, investment and diplomatic level. Now it will be interesting to see how much further these relations can be taken in the coming years. source aninews
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