New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will visit India from March 16-20, marking his first official trip to the country since assuming office. His visit underscores New Zealand’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with India amid shifting global dynamics.
Agenda of Luxon: Meetings with Indian Leaders and Business Delegations
During his trip, Luxon will have a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 17 in New Delhi. The two leaders will talk about major areas of cooperation, such as trade, defense cooperation, and people-to-people relations. PM Modi will also host a luncheon in honor of Luxon, emphasizing the significance of this bilateral interaction. Luxon will also meet with President Droupadi Murmu to strengthen diplomatic ties.
#WATCH | Vientiane, Lao: After his bilateral meeting with PM Modi, New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon says, “I’m a big fan of India…It’s a country I love, admire tremendously. Indians back at home in New Zealand have done exceptionally well in New Zealand. They’re very inspiring.… pic.twitter.com/TjGOWiKIpY
— ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2024
Besides the top-level political talks, Luxon will also be the Chief Guest at India’s flagship geopolitical conference, the 10th Raisina Dialogue. He will give a keynote speech, during which he is likely to describe New Zealand’s vision for foreign policy and the country’s resolve for building stronger relations with India.
Building Economic and Diplomatic Relations
The trip is being made as New Zealand seeks to diversify economic relationships, and especially in the Indo-Pacific region, as the country becomes increasingly concerned about reliance on China. China has long been New Zealand’s biggest trade partner, but Luxon’s administration is interested in increasing economic opportunities with India. His journey marks a bid to revive economic talks, and particularly in technology, education, agriculture, and defense cooperation areas.
From March 19-20, Luxon will visit Mumbai to meet with Indian investors and business leaders. These talks will address increased trade and investment between the two countries, developing new business relationships, and enhancing economic partnerships.
New Era in New Zealand-India Relations
New Zealand’s interactions with India have been minimal in recent years, but Luxon’s visit should alter that course. The two leaders will most likely discuss areas of increased trade negotiations, cultural exchange initiatives, and defense cooperation. This visit paves the way for a more strategic alliance as both nations seek to enhance their positions in the changing Indo-Pacific region.
Luxon has in the past spoken highly of India, saying, “I’m a big fan of India… It’s a country I love, admire tremendously.” His visit is to convert this feeling into more robust bilateral cooperation and long-term economic ties.
