India and New Zealand signed a mega defence pact on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand addressed a joint press conference and witnessed the exchange of agreements between the two countries in Delhi. Kiwi PM is on his official visit to India, which is scheduled for five days, from March 16 to 20.
The Defence Pact
The two countries signed a major agreement to formalise defence and security ties between them. In the meeting, PM Modi mentioned the unlawful elements engaging in anti-India activities in NZ.
The leaders held extensive discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, defence, education, and agriculture.
PM Modi made an announcement that both nations have agreed to strengthen their defence and security partnership, with a roadmap set to be developed for collaboration in the defence industry sector.
PM Modi also reaffirmed the stance of both countries against terrorism saying, “Whether it is the terror attack on Christ Church on March 15, 2019, or Mumbai 26/11, terrorism is unacceptable in every manner. Strict action is necessary against terror perpetrators. We will work together against terrorist, separatist and extremist elements. We have shared our concern regarding anti-India activities in New Zealand. We are sure we will keep getting the New Zealand government’s assistance against these illegal activities.”
Cultural Ties
PM Modi welcomed PM Luxon and his delegation acknowledging his long-standing connection with India. He mentioned his recent Holi celebrations in Auckland and said, “It is a matter of happiness for us that a young and energetic leader like him is the chief guest at Raisina Dialogue this year. Today, we had detailed discussions over various aspects of our bilateral relations. We have decided to give our defence and security ties a strong and strategic form”.
Discussing migration issues, PM Modi said, “Work will be done by India and New Zealand to formulate an agreement to deal with the issue of illegal migration.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted shared commitments in the Indo-Pacific, saying, “We both support a free, open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. We believe in the policy of development, not expansionism. We welcome New Zealand on joining the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative.”
Sports Ties
Prime Minister Modi also specified the strong sports ties between India and New Zealand. “Whether it is cricket, hockey or mountaineering, both countries have old relations in sports. We have emphasised collaboration in sports coaching, exchange of players, sports science, psychology, medicine. We have also decided to celebrate 100 years of sports relationship between both the countries in 2026. We have decided to work on an agreement to simplify the mobility of skilled workers and address the issue of illegal migration,” he said.
The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties, with discussions on economic cooperation, trade expansion, and regional security. Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) have been announced.
New Zealand PM Luxon praised India’s hospitality and highlighted his large delegation of business and community leaders, emphasising trade’s potential benefits.
After arriving in New Delhi on Sunday, Luxon met external affairs minister Jaishankar, who welcomed his commitment to stronger ties.
