PM Modi Calls on New Zealand’s Luxon to Curb Anti-India Activities Amid Talks on FTA, Security Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his New Zealand counterpart, Christopher Luxon, held a joint press conference on Monday in Delhi, where they also witnessed the exchange of agreements between the two nations. The Kiwi PM is on an official five-day visit to India, from March 16 to 20.

PM Modi and NZ PM Christopher Luxon (AP photo)

Welcoming Luxon and his delegation, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged his deep-rooted ties with India and highlighted his recent Holi celebrations in Auckland. "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," he said.

Addressing migration concerns, PM Modi stated, "Work will be done by India and New Zealand to formulate an agreement to deal with the issue of illegal migration."

He also emphasized mutual commitments in the Indo-Pacific, stating, "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."

India, New Zealand ink defence pact

Prime Minister Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon signed a significant agreement to formalize defence and security cooperation between the two nations. Modi also voiced concerns over unlawful elements involved in anti-India activities in New Zealand.

The leaders engaged in comprehensive discussions to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on trade, defence, education, and agriculture.

Addressing the media, Modi announced that both countries have committed to deepening their defence and security partnership, with plans to develop a roadmap for collaboration in the defence industry sector.

Regarding terrorism, Prime Minister Modi reiterated both nations' unwavering commitment to combating it. "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..." he stated.

Strong sports ties

Prime Minister Modi also highlighted the strong sporting connections 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 aims to strengthen bilateral relations, focusing on economic cooperation, trade expansion, and regional security. Discussions also include plans for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

New Zealand Prime Minister Luxon expressed appreciation for India’s hospitality, highlighting his sizable delegation of business and community leaders while emphasizing the benefits of increased trade.

Upon his arrival in New Delhi on Sunday, Luxon met with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, who welcomed his commitment to deepening ties.

(This Article was originally published by MSN)