New Delhi: India and New Zealand formalised a key defence agreement to institutionalise their strategic ties and pledged to enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The move came following comprehensive talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon, during which Modi also flagged concerns about certain unlawful elements in New Zealand engaging in anti-India activities.
The two leaders oversaw the signing of six bilateral agreements covering cooperation in education, sports, agriculture, and climate change. They also agreed to develop a roadmap for collaboration in the defence industry sector, marking a significant step in strengthening military and security ties.
In a media address, PM Modi stated, “India and New Zealand support a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. We believe in the policy of development, not expansionism.” His remarks come amid growing global unease over China’s assertive posture in the region.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to upholding sovereignty and territorial integrity in the Indo-Pacific and emphasized their support for a rules-based international order.
Luxon, who arrived in New Delhi on Sunday for a five-day visit aimed at deepening economic ties, echoed the sentiment. “I reiterated our strong commitment to address shared concerns over our respective interests in contributing to a prosperous Indo-Pacific,” he said.
Free Trade Agreement and Digital Payments
Both nations welcomed the initiation of negotiations for a “balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial” free trade agreement (FTA). Discussions will also include the potential for early cooperation in digital payments and financial technology.
The leaders agreed to explore an arrangement facilitating the mobility of professionals and skilled workers between the two countries, aimed at addressing the challenge of irregular migration.
Security and Terrorism
Touching on security concerns, PM Modi recalled the 2019 Christchurch terror attack and the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, reaffirming that terrorism in any form is unacceptable.
“Strict action is necessary against those guilty of terrorist attacks. We will continue to cooperate together against terrorist, separatist, and radical elements,” Modi said. “In this context, we shared our concern about anti-India activities by some illegal elements in New Zealand. We are confident that we will continue to get the cooperation of the New Zealand government against all these illegal elements,” he added.
Defence Industry Collaboration and Maritime Security
Modi announced that both sides have decided to institutionalise the defence and security partnership. “Along with joint exercises, training, and port visits, a roadmap will be made for mutual cooperation in the defence industry as well,” he said.
New Zealand welcomed India’s participation in the Combined Maritime Forces, with both countries acknowledging progress in defence collaboration during New Zealand’s recent command of Combined Task Force 150.
The joint statement confirmed that a mutual recognition agreement was signed between India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and New Zealand’s Customs Service, aiming to facilitate smoother trade flows.
Global Challenges: Middle East, Ukraine, and Counter-Terrorism
Modi and Luxon discussed key global issues, reaffirming support for peace and stability in the Middle East. They emphasized the need for continued negotiations leading to a permanent resolution, including the release of all hostages and unhindered humanitarian access throughout Gaza.
Both leaders stressed the importance of a negotiated two-state solution, supporting the establishment of a sovereign, viable, and independent Palestine coexisting in peace with Israel.
On the Ukraine conflict, the two leaders voiced support for a just and enduring peace based on international law, the UN Charter, and respect for territorial sovereignty.
Condemning terrorism unequivocally, Modi and Luxon called for urgent and sustained global action against UN-proscribed terrorist groups and individuals. They underscored the importance of disrupting terrorism financing, dismantling terror infrastructure, including online platforms, and ensuring perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
The visit and the agreements signed mark a new chapter in India-New Zealand ties, with both countries committing to greater strategic, economic, and defence engagement in the years ahead.
