PM Christopher Luxon to Strengthen Ties with India in High-Profile Visit

During his visit, Mr. Luxon will meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to explore avenues for closer cooperation, deepen political and security ties, and enhance economic collaboration.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is set to embark on a significant diplomatic and trade mission to India next week, marking a major step in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. His itinerary includes visits to New Delhi and Mumbai, where he will engage in high-level discussions with Indian leaders, business executives, and representatives from the Kiwi-Indian community.

Accompanying Mr. Luxon will be one of the largest delegations ever to travel with a New Zealand Prime Minister. This includes senior New Zealand business leaders, a prominent community delegation of Kiwi Indians, Members of Parliament, and key government ministers, including Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay, and Ethnic Communities Minister Mark Mitchell.

Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Ties

"Since taking office, I have emphasized the importance of strengthening our relationship with India," said Mr. Luxon. "We have made significant progress over the past year in developing a broad-based, sustainable partnership with India, the fastest-growing major economy in the world, and the country of origin for six per cent of New Zealand’s population."

During his visit, Mr. Luxon will meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to explore avenues for closer cooperation, deepen political and security ties, and enhance economic collaboration.

"India is a key player in the Indo-Pacific region, and we will discuss ways to further our shared interests in maintaining peace and prosperity," he added.

India, currently the world’s fifth-largest economy, is on track to become the third-largest in the near future. Mr. Luxon believes that traveling with a senior business delegation will provide valuable opportunities to expand trade, boost business connections, and promote New Zealand as an attractive investment destination.

Engagement with Indian Business and Community Leaders

The visit will also highlight the contributions of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand. "The large and growing Indian community plays an essential role in our society. I am delighted to be traveling with a unique community delegation to emphasize the strong people-to-people connections we share," Mr. Luxon stated.

As part of his engagements, Mr. Luxon will deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue, India's leading conference on global security and strategic affairs. His visit to Mumbai will also feature discussions with prominent business leaders to explore new commercial partnerships.

"At a time of global uncertainty, strengthening our relationship with India is more critical than ever. I am confident that this visit will mark a turning point in our engagement, ensuring greater security and prosperity for both nations," Mr. Luxon concluded.

The Prime Minister and his delegation will depart for India on 15 March, with a packed schedule designed to advance New Zealand’s strategic and economic interests in the region.