New Delhi, July 11 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday described the elevation of India-New Zealand relations to a Strategic Partnership as a "historic milestone", expressing confidence that the new framework would inject fresh momentum into bilateral ties and strengthen cooperation for peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Delivering his opening remarks during the India-New Zealand delegation-level talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Modi thanked his counterpart for the warm welcome extended to him, calling Luxon's decision to personally receive him at the airport a "very special gesture".
"Your presence at the airport last night to receive me was, in itself, a very special gesture. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to you for that," Modi said, while also thanking New Zealand ministers for their hospitality during his arrival.
Highlighting the significance of the visit, Modi noted that it marked the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades. He said holding the engagements in Auckland, the country's economic capital, had created an opportunity to give India-New Zealand ties renewed strength.
"It is a matter of great happiness for me that, after 40 years, an Indian Prime Minister has visited New Zealand. By hosting this programme in your country's economic capital, you have created an opportunity to inject new momentum into India-New Zealand relations," he said.
The Prime Minister also said he was deeply touched by the affection shown by the people of New Zealand towards India.
"Meeting the people of New Zealand and witnessing their affection for India is deeply moving. It has truly touched my heart," he said.
Calling the Strategic Partnership a defining moment in bilateral relations, Modi said it represented a new chapter of energy and reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to deepen their friendship.
"This is a historic milestone in our bilateral relationship. It marks a new chapter of energy and reaffirms our shared commitment to friendship. I am delighted that today we are elevating our ties to a Strategic Partnership. This milestone will inspire us to move forward with even greater confidence, trust and determination," he said.
Modi also praised the swift conclusion of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, recalling that negotiations had begun during Luxon's visit to India and commending the New Zealand government for moving quickly to finalise the pact.
"The way the entire New Zealand government came together to bring the FTA to fruition in such a short span of time is truly remarkable. Perhaps it is the first time in the world that such success has been achieved so quickly. I sincerely thank your leadership, your government, and your entire team for this achievement," he said.
Referring to Luxon's visit to India during the festival of Holi last year, Modi said it had brought "new colours" to the bilateral relationship and strengthened mutual goodwill.
Emphasising shared democratic values, Modi said India and New Zealand were "natural partners" and described the relationship as being "made for each other". He added that, as two maritime nations, the countries could play a greater role in promoting a free, open and peaceful Indo-Pacific.
"Our firm belief in democratic values makes us natural partners—it is truly a case of being 'made for each other'. As two maritime nations, our close cooperation also strengthens the Indo-Pacific region and can infuse new energy into our shared objective of promoting peace," he said.
Expressing confidence about the outcomes of his visit, Modi said the strengthened partnership would enable both countries to expand their contribution to global peace, stability and security.
"I am confident that this visit will further strengthen our bilateral relationship and enable us to enhance our joint contribution to global peace, stability and security. Together, we can serve as a catalytic force—working in support of peace, for peace, and through peace—to advance the welfare of the world," he said.
Earlier during the day, India and New Zealand formally elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership and unveiled an ambitious Roadmap to 2030, with the two sides agreeing to deepen cooperation across trade, defence, maritime security, agriculture, education, sports, technology and regional security, while setting an ambitious target of doubling bilateral trade by the end of the decade.
UNI SKA IM