India and New Zealand on Saturday announced a new strategic partnership, marking a major diplomatic milestone during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to the country in nearly four decades. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hailed the announcement as “historic,” underscoring a significant upgrade in bilateral ties.
Modi, who arrived in Wellington to a ceremonial welcome, held extensive talks with Luxon covering defence cooperation, trade expansion, mobility agreements, climate collaboration and Indo‑Pacific security. Both leaders agreed that the new strategic partnership would serve as a long‑term framework for deeper engagement across political, economic and technological domains.
Luxon said Modi’s visit “opens a new chapter” in relations, noting that New Zealand sees India as a key partner in the Indo‑Pacific. The partnership is expected to strengthen cooperation in maritime security, counter‑terrorism, supply‑chain resilience and emerging technologies — areas where both countries have sought closer alignment.
The two sides also discussed expanding trade and investment flows. Modi emphasised India’s growing economic opportunities and invited New Zealand companies to increase participation in sectors such as food processing, renewable energy, digital innovation and education. Talks included progress on mobility pathways to support skilled workers and students.
Officials said the partnership will also boost collaboration in agriculture, aviation, critical minerals and climate‑resilient development. New Zealand acknowledged India’s role as one of the world’s fastest‑growing major economies and expressed interest in long‑term cooperation on green technologies and sustainable infrastructure.
Modi’s visit — the first by an Indian prime minister in 39 years — is being viewed as a diplomatic reset after years of limited engagement. Both governments said the new partnership reflects shared democratic values and a mutual commitment to stability in the Indo‑Pacific.