PM Modi hails India-New Zealand FTA as “Historic Milestone”, says pact gives fresh momentum to bilateral ties
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon have finalized a Free Trade Agreement, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations. The visit is the first by an Indian PM to New Zealand in 40 years.
Why it matters
The FTA strengthens economic and diplomatic ties between India and New Zealand, signaling a strategic pivot in regional trade partnerships.
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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