New Zealand Delegation Visits Gujarat to Foster Bilateral Ties

A New Zealand delegation, led by Agriculture Minister Todd McClay, visited Gujarat's Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to discuss cooperation in various fields, including agriculture, dairy, and renewable energy. Both sides aim to deepen cultural relations and explore strategic partnerships, emphasizing a "Farmer Exchange Programme."

A nine-member delegation from New Zealand, led by the country's Agriculture Minister, paid a courtesy visit to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar on Wednesday, focusing on potential cooperation between the two regions.

The delegation, including Agriculture, Forestry, and Trade Minister Todd McClay and New Zealand's High Commissioner to India Patrick Rata, explored strategic partnerships with Gujarat. The Chief Minister's Office (CMO) highlighted the eagerness of New Zealand representatives to develop long-term cultural relations with the western Indian state and showed interest in collaborating in agriculture, dairy, and renewable energy sectors.

Chief Minister Patel emphasized the deepening of India-New Zealand relations under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, expressing confidence that Gujarat will further strengthen these bilateral ties. The discussion also touched upon a potential 'Farmer Exchange Programme' to bolster the agriculture and dairy sectors, as well as cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, and electric vehicle manufacturing.

(With inputs from agencies.)