New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon received a warm reception from Union Minister of State S.P. Singh Baghel upon his arrival in Delhi for his inaugural official visit to India.

Luxon is also set to be the Chief Guest and keynote speaker at the Raisina Dialogue 2025.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed, "A warm welcome to PM Christopher Luxon of New Zealand as he arrives in New Delhi on his first official visit. He was greeted by MoS for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, at the airport."

Luxon shared on X, "I’ve just landed in India—a nation of significant importance to New Zealand's economic prosperity, security, and societal growth. India offers vast economic opportunities for Kiwis, which is why I’m here with a senior delegation of business and community leaders."

This visit marks the first time a New Zealand Prime Minister has visited India in nine years, the last being former PM John Key.

Luxon, who will remain in India until March 20, is joined by a high-level delegation including ministers, senior officials, business leaders, media representatives, and members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.

During his stay, Luxon will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 17, focusing on various aspects of India-New Zealand relations. Following their discussions, PM Modi will host a lunch in Luxon's honor. Luxon will also meet with President Droupadi Murmu on the same day.

Additionally, he is scheduled to attend the inaugural session of the 10th Raisina Dialogue 2025 on March 17 as the chief guest, where he will present the keynote address.

On March 19-20, he will visit Mumbai to interact with Indian business leaders and representatives from various sectors. He is expected to depart for Wellington from Mumbai on March 20.

The visit of Prime Minister Rt Hon Luxon emphasizes the long-standing and enduring ties between India and New Zealand, reaffirming both countries' commitment to further strengthen their bilateral relationship across all sectors and deepen their close people-to-people ties, as stated by the MEA.

In February, Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand Neeta Bhushan met with Luxon to explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in multiple domains, reaffirming India's dedication to elevating the bilateral partnership.

Luxon and PM Modi have previously connected at various global events, including the East Asia Summit in Laos in October 2024. Prior to this, the two leaders had a telephone conversation in July 2024.

India and New Zealand share historically close ties driven by strategic interests, trade, education, culture, research, and innovation. The two nations have surmounted geographical challenges to build a prosperous partnership, supported by a large Indian diaspora in New Zealand that serves as a cornerstone for robust cultural cooperation.

Bilateral trade between India and New Zealand reached $1.80 billion in 2022, making New Zealand India's 11th-largest two-way trading partner.

Both leaders reminisced about the successful visit of President Droupadi Murmu to New Zealand in August 2024. PM Modi welcomed New Zealand's decision to join the International Solar Alliance and extended an invitation to Luxon for a visit to India.

Luxon’s visit is anticipated to further strengthen the bilateral relationship, paving the way for deeper cooperation in various sectors.