The inaugural India-New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue, held in New Delhi on August 5, marked a pivotal moment in deepening bilateral defence cooperation. Co-chaired by Amitabh Prasad, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) of India’s Ministry of Defence, and Kathleen Pearce, Head of International Branch of New Zealand’s Ministry of Defence, the dialogue focused on enhancing security collaboration and exploring new avenues for partnership.
The discussions underscored the robust defence relationship between the two nations, with both sides expressing enthusiasm for expanding cooperation in key areas such as military training, capability development, defence industry partnerships, maritime security, and multinational engagements. The dialogue highlighted the shared commitment to addressing regional and global security challenges, including safeguarding global commons like maritime trade routes.
A significant point of discussion was New Zealand’s recent leadership of the Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-150), a multinational naval coalition focused on maritime security. India commended New Zealand’s successful command, noting the participation of five Indian Navy personnel as staff in the task force. Both nations also explored ways to enhance the White Shipping Information Exchange, a mechanism for sharing maritime data to improve situational awareness and counter threats like piracy and smuggling.
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The dialogue was established under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in March 2025, a landmark step in strengthening defence ties. This MoU reflects the growing trust and shared values between India and New Zealand, underpinned by their democratic principles, vibrant people-to-people connections, and a shared passion for cricket.
Beyond the dialogue, Kathleen Pearce’s visit included high-level meetings with India’s Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on August 4. These discussions further solidified the commitment to deepen defence and strategic cooperation, with an emphasis on joint exercises, technology transfers, and collaborative research in defence innovation.
India and New Zealand also acknowledged the broader scope of their partnership, which spans political dialogue, trade, education, and cultural exchanges. The defence dialogue is expected to pave the way for joint initiatives in emerging technologies, such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, to address modern security challenges.
As both nations look to the future, the India-New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue sets a strong foundation for a resilient partnership, fostering peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
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