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New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon Embarks on Five-Day Official Visit to India to Boost Bilateral Ties.

National | Dated: 22 Mar 2025

Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister (PM) of New Zealand (NZ), was on a five-day official visit to India from March 16 to 20, 2025, following an invitation from PM of India Narendra Modi. The visit aimed to enhance India-New Zealand bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, defence, education, technology, agriculture, space, and sports.

🎯 Key Highlights:

- This was his first visit to India. He was accompanied by Louise Upston, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality; Hon. Mark Mitchell, Minister for Ethnic Communities, and Sport and Recreation; and Todd McClay, Minister for Trade and Investment, Agriculture, and Forestry, along with a high-level delegation of officials and business representatives.
- PM Narendra Modi and PM Christopher Luxon jointly inaugurated the 10th Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, with PM Luxon serving as the Chief Guest (CG).
- During the visit, New Zealand joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) as its 50th member.

💡 Other Important Facts:

(i) NZ PM Christopher Luxon engaged in summit-level discussions with PM Narendra Modi. Both leaders addressed bilateral, regional, and national issues, issued a joint statement, and signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).
(ii) India and New Zealand launched negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), aiming to finalize it within two months. The agreement is expected to enhance trade and economic cooperation, particularly in agriculture, aerospace, and renewable energy sectors.
(iii) PM of New Zealand expressed interest in joining the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which country's Prime Minister recently embarked on a five-day official visit to India to strengthen bilateral ties?

Correct Answer: New Zealand

🚀 Quick Recap:

About New Zealand (NZ)

PM : Christopher Luxon
Capital : Wellington