New Zealand Prime Minister to Initiate Visit to India on March 16

New Delhi, March 10 (NationPress) New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is set to embark on an official visit to India from March 16-20, following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday.

This marks Luxon's inaugural visit to India since he took office, and he will be joined by a distinguished delegation, which includes ministers, senior officials, business leaders, media representatives, and members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.

The MEA stated, "Prime Minister Rt Hon Luxon's visit highlights the longstanding and resilient relationship between India and New Zealand. It reaffirms the dedication of both nations to enhancing bilateral ties across various sectors and to strengthen our close people-to-people connections."

During his stay, Luxon will engage in discussions with Prime Minister Modi on March 17 covering multiple facets of India-New Zealand relations. PM Modi is also set to host a lunch in honor of the visiting leader, who will meet with President Droupadi Murmu on the same day.

Luxon is slated to attend the inaugural session of the 10th Raisina Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi on March 17 as the chief guest and will deliver a keynote address. Additionally, he will visit Mumbai on March 19-20 to engage with Indian business leaders and other prominent figures.

The visiting Prime Minister is expected to depart for Wellington from Mumbai on March 20.

Last month, Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand, Neeta Bhushan, met with Luxon to explore avenues for enhancing collaboration between the two nations, reaffirming New Delhi's commitment to elevating this partnership.

India and New Zealand have historically maintained close and amicable relations, with expanding ties driven by mutual strategic interests and economic benefits. Both countries collaborate in sectors such as trade, education, culture, research, and innovation, transcending geographic barriers to forge a prosperous partnership.

The two nations share a strong alliance rooted in mutual respect and common objectives. Despite geographical distances, there is a robust bond and people-to-people connectivity facilitated by a significant Indian diaspora. This vibrant community serves as a foundation for rich cultural cooperation between the two nations.

Previously, PM Modi and Prime Minister Luxon met during the ASEAN-India Summit in Vientiane, Laos, in October 2024.

Both leaders reflected on 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 for Luxon to visit India.

"Had an excellent meeting with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Mr. Christopher Luxon. We value our friendship with New Zealand, bound together by a commitment to democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Our discussions covered areas including economic cooperation, tourism, education, and innovation," PM Modi shared on X on October 10, 2024, following their meeting.