PM Modi hails India-New Zealand FTA as ‘historic milestone’, says it will deepen bilateral ties
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon have finalized a historic Free Trade Agreement during a diplomatic visit to Auckland. The leaders emphasized the strengthening of bilateral ties and a shared commitment to a strategic partnership.
Why it matters
The rapid conclusion of this FTA represents a significant shift in Indo-Pacific trade relations and signals closer economic cooperation between India and New Zealand.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (July 11, 2026) described the India- New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA ) as a historic milestone in bilateral ties, thanking New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for concluding the pact in a short span.
During delegation-level talks in Auckland, PM Modi also hailed the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years, saying it had infused new momentum into the relationship and reaffirmed the two countries' commitment to deepening their partnership. "It gives me great pleasure that an Indian Prime Minister has visited New Zealand for the first time in 40 years. By organising an event in your economic capital, you have created an opportunity to infuse new strength into the relationship between India and New Zealand. I am deeply grateful," Mr. Modi said.
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