Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon jointly inaugurated the 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, India’s flagship conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, in the capital on Monday.
The event, hosted annually by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), has become a key platform for global leaders, policymakers, academics, and industry experts to deliberate on pressing international issues.
The three-day conference features participation from around 125 countries, including deputy prime ministers and foreign ministers from nearly 20 nations. Among the prominent attendees is the Foreign Minister of Ukraine.
In his keynote address, Luxon emphasized the growing economic dynamism of the Indo-Pacific region, stating, “India and New Zealand are fortunate to be part of one of the most economically vibrant regions in the world.” He noted that the Indo-Pacific is projected to contribute to two-thirds of global economic growth in the coming years and will house the majority of the world’s middle-class consumers by 2030.
The New Zealand Prime Minister also highlighted India’s crucial role in this transformation, adding, “Our trade has diversified considerably, with India now serving as a key supplier of pharmaceuticals and machinery, while New Zealand continues to be a significant destination for Indian students and tourists.”
Luxon acknowledged the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, particularly through the Indian diaspora, stating, “New Zealanders of Indian heritage make up 11% of Auckland’s population and are fully integrated into our multicultural society.”
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored the importance of dialogues like Raisina in shaping a rapidly evolving world order. “This forum fosters honest conversations, fresh ideas, and creative solutions,” he said.
Earlier in the day, Modi and Luxon held bilateral talks, discussing key areas of cooperation, including trade, digital payments, and defence. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to resuming negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) after a decade-long hiatus.
India’s merchandise exports to New Zealand stood at $535 million in 2023-24, while imports totalled $335.07 million, marking a trade value of $873 million.
A joint statement released after the talks emphasized mutual interest in boosting trade and investment across sectors like dairy, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. “By leveraging each country’s strengths and addressing concerns, a bilateral trade agreement can foster mutually beneficial economic growth,” the statement noted.
Additionally, the two countries signed multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs) covering areas such as horticulture, forestry, and earthquake mitigation. A landmark agreement was also inked to institutionalize defence and security cooperation.
During a joint media briefing, Modi raised concerns over anti-India activities in New Zealand, indirectly referring to pro-Khalistani elements. “We have shared our concerns regarding anti-India activities, and we are confident of continued cooperation from the New Zealand government in addressing these illegal activities,” he stated.
Luxon reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to ensuring a rules-based Indo-Pacific, calling for respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. “We want to live in a region where countries are free to choose their own paths without external interference,” he remarked, in an apparent reference to regional geopolitical tensions.
While reiterating New Zealand’s support for India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council, Luxon also acknowledged India’s significant role in global affairs. “As a key player in an increasingly multipolar world, India’s leadership is crucial to maintaining stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.”
Modi and Luxon also underscored their countries’ shared commitment to free navigation and maritime security in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
As the Raisina Dialogue continues over the next two days, discussions will span six thematic pillars, focusing on global peace, economic resilience, and technological advancements. The theme for this year, “Kālachakra – People, Peace, and Planet,” aims to drive forward conversations on sustainable development and international cooperation.
