PM Modi concludes his New Zealand visit with 18 pacts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi successfully concluded his diplomatic mission to New Zealand by securing 18 significant agreements across diverse sectors ranging from maritime security to counter-terrorism. Elevating their diplomatic engagement, both nations formally established an India-New Zealand Strategic Partnership, building upon a recently concluded Free Trade Agreement. This landmark trip marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited New Zealand in 40 years, signaling a clear geopolitical shift as India strengthens its maritime alliances across the Indo-Pacific region. Modi noted on social media that both nations completed their trade agreements in record time and are looking forward to substantial economic growth.

Trade Targets

During detailed bilateral discussions, Modi and his counterpart Christopher Luxon established an ambitious economic roadmap for the remainder of this decade. Both leaders committed to doubling the bilateral trade target to reach Rs 35,000 crore by 2030, enhancing market access for businesses in both countries. They agreed to implement a Kiwifruit Action Plan, which includes creating two distinct agricultural centres in Nagaland and Uttarakhand to boost output. New Zealand also officially joined the Global Biofuels Alliance, reinforcing international cooperation for a sustainable energy transition.

Defence and Maritime Security

Security coordination emerged as a primary focus during the intensive high-level talks. Defense ministries from both sides signed an arrangement to expand Indo-Pacific maritime cooperation through joint activities and intelligence sharing. Another crucial pact facilitates reciprocal logistics support between the Indian Navy and the New Zealand Defence Force during approved naval operations. Both countries also established a specialized counter-terrorism working group to coordinate efforts, exchange critical information, and effectively combat global terror networks. New Zealand further committed to addressing unregulated fishing within regional waters.

With Inputs from Agency Threads and Image Courtesy: ANI