India, New Zealand Elevate Ties to Strategic Partnership, Set ₹35,000 Crore Trade Goal

India and New Zealand on Saturday elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership , unveiling an ambitious roadmap to strengthen cooperation in trade, defence, maritime security and the Indo-Pacific . Following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon , the two countries set a target to double bilateral trade in goods and services to around ₹35,000 crore (NZ$7 billion) by 2030 .

The leaders announced 18 outcomes, including 10 agreements , including a four-year roadmap to deepen ties, a reciprocal logistics support pact between the Indian Navy and the New Zealand Defence Force, and the launch of a Maritime Security Dialogue to boost coordination and information sharing in the Indo-Pacific.

Calling India and New Zealand "two maritime nations," Modi said closer cooperation would strengthen the Indo-Pacific and inject fresh momentum into their shared goal of regional peace and stability. The discussions came during Modi's first visit to New Zealand by an Indian prime minister in 40 years , the final leg of his three-nation tour focused on enhancing Indo-Pacific cooperation.

The two sides also agreed to fast-track the implementation of the recently signed India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) . Bilateral trade currently stands at around USD 2.25 billion , while the FTA is expected to facilitate USD 20 billion in New Zealand investments in India over the next 15 years , creating opportunities across agriculture, technology, education, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.

Reaffirming their commitment to a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific , the leaders stressed respect for international law, including UNCLOS , and called for freedom of navigation and overflight. They also expressed concern over renewed tensions in West Asia , urging restraint, protection of civilians and the restoration of unhindered commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz .

The two leaders further reiterated support for UN reforms , including expansion of the UN Security Council . New Zealand is also home to over 300,000 people of Indian origin , who continue to play a significant role in the country's economy, business and public life.