From Defence to Trade: India and New Zealand Sign 18 Key Agreements During PM Narendra Modi's Visit

Auckland: During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New Zealand, a big change was seen in the relations between India and New Zealand. Both countries agreed on 18 important agreements and initiatives to take bilateral relations to new heights. In the talks between PM Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, it was decided to work together in many areas including defence, trade, terrorism, education, agriculture and sports. The two leaders also aimed to take India-New Zealand relations to a 'strategic partnership' by 2030.

What is the roadmap of relations till 2030?

India and New Zealand have prepared a complete roadmap till 2030. Under this, the focus will be on defence, trade, investment, education, technology and increasing contacts between people. Both countries believe that this new framework will further strengthen relations in the coming years. The goal is clear, not just friendship, but deep partnership in every field.

What new decisions were taken in defence and maritime security?

Defence cooperation was the biggest part of the talks this time. A maritime cooperation agreement was signed between the defence ministry of India and the New Zealand Defence Force. Apart from this, the Indian Navy and New Zealand Army will also work together in logistics support, hydrography and making marine maps. Now there will be regular talks regarding maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. Its purpose is to maintain peace and stability in this entire region.

What was the plan against terrorism?

Both countries decided to form a joint working group to combat terrorism. Through this group both countries will share intelligence information. New strategies to stop terrorism will be worked on and coordination between security agencies will be improved.

How big is the goal of the business?

A big target has also been set on the economic front. India and New Zealand have set a target of increasing bilateral trade to 7 billion New Zealand dollars (about Rs 35 thousand crore) by 2030. Both the leaders say that this will increase investment, boost exports and provide new employment opportunities to the youth of both the countries.

What will be the benefit to farmers and education?

'Kiwi Fruit Action Plan' for agriculture was agreed upon. Under this, two centers of excellence will be built in Uttarakhand and Nagaland. Here farmers will get help in new technology, better seeds and increase in yield. Technical cooperation will also increase in animal husbandry and dairy. An agreement was signed between NDMA of India and NEMA of New Zealand on disaster management for education and research. Also, universities of both countries will work together in polar research, marine science and food technology.

What happened on tourism, culture and green energy?

Joint programmes will be run to promote tourism and culture. There will also be cooperation in training of players and sports science. New Zealand announced to join the Global Biofuels Alliance. The two countries will also work together on stopping illegal fishing and enhancing maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. Both Prime Ministers said that these 18 agreements will take the India-New Zealand friendship into a new era.