Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the newly signed India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on Monday, calling it a transformative step towards inclusive growth. He highlighted the wide-ranging opportunities the FTA will unlock across various segments of society, including farmers, small businesses, startups, and students. PM Modi described the pact as a ‘landmark moment’ in bilateral ties, emphasizing the deep trust, shared values, and growing ambition between the two nations.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the agreement goes beyond trade expansion, focusing on empowering diverse sections of society and accelerating India’s development trajectory. He expressed his delight over the FTA, stating that it will add unprecedented momentum to the developmental partnership between India and New Zealand. PM Modi also noted New Zealand’s $20 billion investment commitment, which is expected to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, innovation, and technology, fostering a more dynamic economic partnership.
PM Modi highlighted that the FTA will greatly benefit various sectors of society, including farmers, youth, women, MSMEs, artisans, startups, students, and innovators. He expressed confidence that the agreement will open new avenues for growth, create opportunities, and enhance synergy across different sectors. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon echoed similar optimism, describing the deal as a “historic milestone” that signifies a new phase in bilateral relations.
Luxon credited ministers and officials from both countries for swiftly concluding the comprehensive agreement, noting that negotiations began just 13 months ago after his visit to India. He emphasized the massive opportunity the FTA presents for both countries, acknowledging India as one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies. Prime Minister Luxon highlighted the untapped potential in the trade relationship between India and New Zealand, expressing optimism for the future cooperation between the two nations.
