New Zealand Official Commends India's Sports Emphasis Under PM Modi
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Synopsis
New Zealand's Minister of Police, Mark Mitchell, praises PM Modi's focus on sports, emphasizing its importance for India and the potential for deeper cooperation between the nations, especially in agriculture and trade.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's dedication to sports and recreation.
- Importance of sports diplomacy in global relations.
- Launch of India-New Zealand FTA negotiations.
- Potential collaboration in agriculture and primary industries.
- Strengthening bilateral ties through shared democratic values.
New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) The Minister of Police for New Zealand, Mark Mitchell, who is part of the visiting delegation led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, expressed on Sunday that PM Narendra Modi has established a significant focus on sports and recreation, acknowledging its critical role for India.
In a conversation with IANS, Mark Mitchell stated, “PM Modi has highlighted a robust emphasis on sports and recreation, understanding its significance for India. This sentiment resonates with us as well—we recognize how essential sports are for our nation and we aspire to enhance this relationship further. As the Minister for Sport and Recreation, I will be engaging in discussions on this topic. There is much we can learn from each other, and we are devoted to strengthening these connections. Sports diplomacy is an influential instrument, particularly in today’s swiftly evolving and uncertain landscape.”
“I believe there are numerous domains in which we can collaborate, unite our efforts, and gain insights from one another. Both our nations are heavily reliant on agriculture and primary industries, presenting various avenues for joint initiatives,” he added.
Earlier that day, India and New Zealand declared the commencement of negotiations for a comprehensive and mutually advantageous Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
This announcement followed New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon receiving a warm reception upon his arrival in Delhi for his inaugural official visit to the nation.
As per a statement from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, this significant milestone was marked by a meeting between Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, and Todd McClay, New Zealand's Minister for Trade and Investment, laying the groundwork for a remarkable partnership aimed at bolstering economic and trade relations between the two countries.
The two nations “share a longstanding partnership founded on mutual democratic values, robust people-to-people connections, and economic complementarities,” the ministry stated.
Both countries have persistently endeavored to cultivate their bilateral relationship encompassing trade and investment.
The India-New Zealand FTA negotiations strive to achieve balanced outcomes that enhance supply chain integration and boost market access. This landmark initiative embodies a shared vision for a more robust economic partnership, promoting resilience and prosperity.
Luxon, who will be in India until March 20, is accompanied by a high-level delegation that includes ministers, senior officials, business leaders, media personnel, and members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.
