On July 3 local time, New Zealand Prime Minister Mark Thatcher announced that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit New Zealand next week. According to New Zealand Radio (RNZ), Modi is expected to arrive in Auckland on July 10 and leave on the 11th. This will be Modi’s first visit to New Zealand, and also the first time a Indian Prime Minister has visited the country in 40 years.
Laxen said that Modi's visit is "historic." "This visit aims to celebrate the successful partnership between New Zealand and India. It not only brings benefits to our people, but also contributes to greater prosperity and security for both countries."
He stated that the free trade agreement signed between New Zealand and India in April will elevate bilateral relations to a new level. This will bring more employment opportunities, higher exports, and stronger economic growth for New Zealand.
Indian Prime Minister Modi IC Photo
The last visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand dates back to 1986. At that time, Rajiv Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India, and he visited New Zealand to facilitate the signing of several agreements between the two countries, including agreements to avoid double taxation and trade agreements.
According to RNZ, at least since March this year, the Indian government has been preparing for Modi's visit to New Zealand. The Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry previously stated that New Zealand showed great enthusiasm for the visit, and it is expected that a high-level business delegation will accompany Modi during his visit.
