Prime Minister Modi Receives Grand Welcome During Historic New Zealand Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday as part of his three nation diplomatic tour, receiving a warm welcome from New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the airport. The visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in nearly forty years, making it a significant moment in the relationship between the two countries.

During his two day visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold detailed discussions with Prime Minister Luxon to expand cooperation in trade, investment and economic development. Both leaders are also expected to review progress in negotiations related to a proposed free trade agreement, which has gained momentum in recent months.

The visit is expected to reinforce India’s strategic engagement in the Indo Pacific region while strengthening long term partnerships with New Zealand. Ahead of his arrival, Prime Minister Modi said the visit reflects India’s commitment to its Act East Policy and the Mahasagar vision, while supporting a free, open and inclusive Indo Pacific.

Prime Minister Modi also noted that the positive outcomes of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to India in March 2025 have created fresh opportunities for closer cooperation. He expressed confidence that the current visit would help deepen collaboration across several sectors and open new avenues for future engagement.

Apart from official meetings, Prime Minister Modi is expected to interact with members of the Indian community in New Zealand. The event will highlight the contribution of the Indian diaspora and further strengthen people to people connections between the two nations.

Before reaching New Zealand, Prime Minister Modi concluded successful visits to Indonesia and Australia. In Australia, India and Australia signed a major civil nuclear fuel agreement that will facilitate uranium supplies to India while expanding defence and maritime cooperation. In Indonesia, both countries signed important agreements covering critical minerals, maritime security and other areas of strategic importance.