Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in New Zealand on Friday for the final leg of his three-nation diplomatic tour, where he will hold high-level talks with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment and regional security.

Prime Minister Luxon welcomed Modi upon his arrival in Auckland. During the two-day visit, the leaders are expected to discuss ways to expand economic, commercial and strategic ties while reviewing progress in the India-New Zealand relationship.

Focus on Trade, Investment and Indo-Pacific Cooperation

Ahead of the visit, Prime Minister Modi said the trip would build on the momentum created by Prime Minister Luxon's visit to India in March 2025.

The discussions are expected to focus on enhancing trade, investment, economic cooperation, and strengthening collaboration under India's Act East Policy and MAHASAGAR Vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

The Prime Minister will also interact with members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand during the visit.

Visit Follows Successful Australia Engagement

Modi arrived in Auckland after concluding a three-day visit to Australia, where he held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The two leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in defence, maritime security, clean energy and critical minerals.

One of the major outcomes of the Australia visit was the signing of a civil nuclear energy agreement, enabling commercial uranium exports from Australia to support India's nuclear energy programme.

Indonesia Visit Strengthened Regional Cooperation

Before travelling to Australia, Prime Minister Modi visited Indonesia, where India and Indonesia signed 14 agreements covering critical minerals, maritime cooperation, connectivity and other strategic sectors.

The three-nation tour reflects India's broader diplomatic efforts to strengthen partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region and promote regional stability, economic growth and secure supply chains.

New Zealand Visit Expected to Deepen Bilateral Relations

India and New Zealand have recently expanded engagement across trade, education, technology and people-to-people exchanges.

The leaders are expected to explore new opportunities for economic cooperation, commercial partnerships and regional collaboration during Modi's visit.

The visit is also expected to further reinforce the growing strategic partnership between the two Indo-Pacific nations.