Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Australia, New Zealand, and Indonesia, focusing on the Indo-Pacific region. The tour aligned with India’s Act East Policy and MAHASAGAR vision, emphasizing regional ties over isolated visits. India’s engagements in the Indo-Pacific now integrate trade and defense cooperation from the start, with a focus on maritime security dialogues.
During the visit, India and New Zealand announced a free trade agreement and strategic partnership together, showcasing a comprehensive approach. India extended its Maritime Cooperation Arrangement and Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement to New Zealand, indicating a desire to expand logistics partnerships beyond traditional allies like Australia and the United States.
PM Modi’s interactions with the Indian diaspora in Auckland highlighted the importance of community networks in India’s Pacific outreach. This signifies a strategic use of existing community ties as diplomatic assets. India’s expanding Indo-Pacific strategy now includes the South Pacific, following a trade-plus-security model established with partners like Australia and Japan.
