India and New Zealand have signed five agreements in the fields of Defence, Education, Sports, Horticulture, and Forestry. Both sides also exchanged the Authorized Economic Operator Mutual Recognition Agreement. Two countries announced the launch of negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement and negotiations on an arrangement facilitating the mobility of professionals and skilled workers. New Zealand has joined the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and has become a member of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon in New Delhi yesterday. The discussions covered various aspects of India-New Zealand relations. In his press statement, Mr Modi said, they had detailed discussions on various aspects of the bilateral relationship, and both sides decided to strengthen and institutionalize the defence and security partnership. He said that, along with joint exercises, training, and port visits, a roadmap will be prepared for mutual cooperation in the defence industry. The Prime Minister said that it had been decided to initiate negotiations on a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement between the two countries, which will boost the potential for mutual trade and investment.
Mr. Modi said India and New Zealand will continue to cooperate against terrorist, separatist, and radical elements. Prime Minister Modi said both sides support a Free, Open, Secure, and Prosperous Indo-Pacific and believe in the policy of development, not expansionism. In his statement, Mr. Luxon said both sides looking forward to achieving a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement. He said New Zealand will increase its diplomatic presence in India.
Later, briefing media, Secretary (East) in Ministry of External Affairs Jaideep Mazumdar, on a query regarding the discussions on Khalistani elements, said, the issue came up during the talks between the two leaders.
The New Zealand Prime Minister and his delegation also called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Prime Minister Modi and Mr Luxon jointly inaugurated the 10th edition of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi yesterday evening. In his keynote address, Mr Luxon said, India and New Zealand are fortunate to be part of the world’s most economically dynamic region.
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