New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, upon arriving in New Delhi on Sunday, hailed India as a nation of “huge importance” to his country’s prosperity, security, and society, coinciding with the launch of negotiations for a comprehensive India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Leading one of the largest delegations ever for a Kiwi PM, Luxon’s five-day visit from March 16-20 includes talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday and a keynote address at the Raisina Dialogue 2025’s inaugural session as chief guest.
“I’ve landed in India - a country of huge importance to New Zealand’s prosperity, security and society. India provides huge economic opportunity for Kiwis,” Luxon posted on X, emphasizing the senior business and community leaders accompanying him. Ahead of his talks with Modi, the two nations kicked off FTA negotiations, marking India’s second such pact in Oceania after Australia in 2022. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, after meeting New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay, announced, “We are delighted to launch India-New Zealand FTA negotiations,” noting bilateral trade surpassing USD 1 billion from April-January 2025. “This milestone reflects our shared vision to deepen trade ties and expand economic opportunities,” Goyal added.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Luxon Sunday evening, praising his commitment to strengthening ties. “Looking forward to his participation as Chief Guest in #RaisinaDialogue2025,” Jaishankar tweeted. Last week, Luxon underscored his intent to forge a “comprehensive economic partnership” with India and enhance Indo-Pacific security cooperation. “India is an important power in the Indo-Pacific… I will discuss with Prime Minister Modi what more we can do together to maintain peace and prosperity,” he said, vowing to transform trade relations “big time.”
Luxon’s delegation—featuring ministers, business tycoons, prominent Kiwi Indians, and parliamentarians—aims to boost trade, investment, and New Zealand’s appeal as a destination. Following Delhi, he will visit Mumbai on March 19-20 to engage with business leaders before returning to Wellington, reinforcing the strategic and economic stakes of this landmark visit.