New Zealand PM Luxon’s India Visit: Strengthening Ties

" Strengthening our relationship with India is a key priority for my Government. This visit will serve as an opportunity to deepen political and security ties while also fostering stronger economic relationships". mentions Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, ahead of his visit to India.

Christopher Luxon the 42nd Prime Minister of New Zealand.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is set to embark on a significant visit to India next week, covering New Delhi and Mumbai, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between New Zealand and one of the world's fastest-growing economies. Accompanying him will be one of the largest delegations ever led by a New Zealand Prime Minister, consisting of senior business leaders, parliament representatives, and key government ministers including Hon Louise Upston (Tourism and Hospitality), Hon Todd McClay (Trade and Investment), and Hon Mark Mitchell (Ethnic Communities).

Expanding Economic and Strategic Relations

Prime Minister Luxon has emphasized India's importance in New Zealand’s international engagement strategy. “Since coming into office, I have signaled that strengthening our relationship with India is a key priority for my Government,” he stated. This visit will serve as an opportunity to deepen political and security ties while also fostering stronger economic relationships. Luxon will meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss areas of cooperation, regional security, and economic collaborations.

As the world’s fifth-largest economy and a rapidly growing global powerhouse, India represents a substantial opportunity for New Zealand businesses. India is projected to become the third-largest economy in the coming years, and New Zealand’s trade relations with India have been steadily expanding. In 2024, New Zealand’s exports to India were valued at NZ$1.54 billion, making it the country’s 12th largest trading partner.

High-Powered Business Delegation

A crucial component of this visit is the 38-member strong business delegation, supported by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE). The delegation will focus on expanding trade in sectors such as digital technology, infrastructure, specialized manufacturing, primary industries, and aerospace.

NZTE Chief Executive Peter Chrisp highlighted India's potential as a key trading partner, stating, “India is an exciting market right now – a young, vibrant, and energetic country driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and rapid modernization. New Zealand companies are eager to scale up trade with India, particularly in areas where cutting-edge innovation can add value.”

The delegation will be led by Dame Therese Walsh, independent director and Chair of Air New Zealand and Chair of ASB Bank, along with former New Zealand cricketer Ross Taylor, who serves as a Sports Ambassador. Their leadership underscores New Zealand’s commitment to fostering long-term business and cultural connections with India.

The delegation includes key industry players, they will explore opportunities to enhance collaboration and investment prospects with their Indian counterparts.

Cultural and People-to-People Connections

In addition to trade and investment discussions, the mission also aims to strengthen cultural ties. A special Kapa Haka group, Te Kapa Haka o Te Whānau-a-Apanui, will accompany the delegation to showcase New Zealand’s unique cultural identity and integrate tikanga elements into the program. Furthermore, a dedicated Kiwi-Indian community delegation will highlight the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand, reinforcing the importance of people-to-people links.

Key Engagements and Future Prospects

During his time in India, Prime Minister Luxon will deliver the inaugural address at the prestigious Raisina Dialogue, India’s premier defense and security forum. He will also engage with senior business leaders in Mumbai to discuss potential collaborations and investment opportunities.

“New Zealand’s relationship with India is more important than ever at this time of geopolitical uncertainty. I am confident my visit will mark a step change in our engagement, as we continue to strengthen our mutual security and prosperity,” Luxon noted.

With increasing trade momentum and growing diplomatic and business ties, this visit marks a pivotal moment in New Zealand-India relations. As both nations work towards building a broad-based and sustainable partnership, the outcomes of this visit could set the stage for a more dynamic and mutually beneficial future.

"We are thrilled to be receiving one of NewZealand’s largest ever Prime Ministerial delegations in India next week". said Graham Rouse, New Zealand Trade Commissioner & Consul General - India & South Asia in his social media post. He added, "In addition to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, we will also be welcoming senior business leaders, a community delegation of prominent Kiwi Indians, representatives from across Parliament, and the Ministers for Tourism and Hospitality, Trade and Investment, and Ethnic Communities: Hons Louise Upston, Todd McClay and Mark Mitchell".