During bilateral discussions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated India’s apprehensions to New Zealand‘s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon regarding the activities of Khalistani elements within the Pacific Island nation. The Indian Prime Minister underscored the shared commitment of both nations to combating terrorism, emphasizing its unacceptability in any form. He drew parallels between the Christchurch and Mumbai terror attacks, advocating for decisive action against perpetrators of such atrocities.
At a joint press briefing, Prime Minister Modi conveyed that India and New Zealand would fortify their collaborative efforts against terrorism, separatism, and radicalism. He expressed concern over anti-India activities conducted by certain unlawful groups in New Zealand, expressing confidence in the continued cooperation of the New Zealand government to address these concerns. Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, elaborated on the discussion, stating that the issue of Khalistan was raised and that India alerted New Zealand to the activities of anti-India elements who abuse democratic freedoms to promote terrorism and issue threats against Indian diplomats, Parliament, and events. He noted that New Zealand had been receptive to these concerns in the past.
The leaders of both nations witnessed the signing of seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), including one focused on defense cooperation. They also announced the initiation of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a mobility arrangement for professionals and skilled workers. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the shared vision of India and New Zealand for a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, highlighting their commitment to development over expansionism. He welcomed New Zealand’s participation in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
A joint statement released by the two countries affirmed their dedication to strengthening bilateral relations, founded on shared democratic principles and strong interpersonal connections. Both leaders recognized the untapped potential for growth in their relationship and pledged to collaborate in various sectors, including trade, investment, defense, security, education, research, science, technology, agri-tech, space, and the mobility of people and sports.
The prime ministers reiterated their support for freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as other lawful uses of the sea, in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They emphasized the importance of peaceful dispute resolution through international law, particularly UNCLOS. They acknowledged the strong ties between their populations, with individuals of Indian origin comprising approximately six percent of New Zealand’s population.
The leaders acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand and their role in fostering people-to-people connections. They emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of the Indian community in New Zealand, including students, and of New Zealand citizens in India. New Zealand welcomed India’s participation in the Combined Maritime Forces, and both leaders noted the progress in defense ties during New Zealand’s command of Combined Task Force 150.
They appreciated the regular training exchanges of officers at defense colleges and agreed to enhance capacity-building cooperation. Furthermore, they acknowledged the significance of traditional medicine systems in both countries and welcomed discussions between experts to explore potential areas of collaboration.
Both leaders stressed the importance of an effective multilateral system, centered on a reformed United Nations, to address global challenges. They advocated for UN reforms, including the expansion of the Security Council, to enhance its representativeness and effectiveness. New Zealand endorsed India’s candidacy for permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council, and both countries agreed to explore mutual support for candidacies in multilateral forums.
They reaffirmed their commitment to global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, acknowledging the value of India’s potential membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Both leaders expressed support for peace and stability in the Middle East and welcomed the agreement for the release of hostages and ceasefire. They also discussed the situation in Ukraine, expressing support for a just and lasting peace based on international law, the UN Charter, and territorial integrity.
