New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for leading an economic transformation that lifted millions from poverty.
The remarks signal a strengthening of the strategic partnership between the two nations as they expand ties through business and sports engagements.
Speaking in Auckland during the India-New Zealand Business and Sports Engagement, Luxon described the shift in India's economic landscape as an "incredible transformation" [2]. He said India has lifted 250 million people out of poverty [1].
Luxon said the country has experienced rapid middle-class growth over the past three decades. He contrasted this current state with his own personal experiences in the region during the late 20th century.
"I recall seeing Indians paid in coins during my 1990s visit," Luxon said [3].
The Prime Minister said much of this progress was due to the leadership of Narendra Modi. The event in Auckland served as a platform to acknowledge India's growth and to solidify the newly announced strategic partnership between the two countries [3].
Luxon said the scale of the poverty reduction, affecting 250 million people [1], serves as an inspiring example of national development. The engagement focused on leveraging these economic gains to foster deeper cooperation in trade and athletic exchange.
“India has lifted 250 million people out of poverty.”
This public endorsement by a Western leader highlights India's growing geopolitical influence and its transition from a developing economy to a global powerhouse. By linking historical observations of the 1990s to current poverty statistics, New Zealand is signaling a desire to align more closely with India's economic trajectory to secure future trade and strategic advantages.
