Modi, first PM in NZ in 40 years, to capitalise on FTA, boost ties
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting New Zealand to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on trade, defense, and education. The visit aims to leverage a recent Free Trade Agreement and explore cooperation in high-performance sports ahead of India's potential 2036 Olympic bid.
Why it matters
This visit signifies a strategic effort by India to deepen its diplomatic and economic footprint in the Indo-Pacific region.
NEW DELHI: PM Narendra Modi arrived in Auckland Friday for the first visit by any Indian PM to New Zealand in 40 years, looking to capitalise on the landmark FTA signed earlier this year, boost defence and security cooperation and address issues related to talent mobility and education.Looking to build upon a sports cooperation MoU signed earlier, the two sides are also likely to announce initiatives for collaboration in high-performance sports to boost India's chances of hosting the Olympic Games in 2036. Both countries are currently celebrating 100 years of sporting ties and, as official sources said, looking to translate the centenary partnership into tangible outcomes for athletes, coaches and sporting ecosystems. Like his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese, New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon is also expected to back India's bid to host the Olympics.Modi was received at the airport by Luxon.
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