Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to the Indian diaspora in Auckland that India is emerging as a leading global growth engine.
The visit marks a significant diplomatic effort to strengthen bilateral ties between India and New Zealand while showcasing India's rapid technological and economic expansion.
Modi highlighted a "bouquet of India's achievements" during his speech, citing progress in manufacturing, startups, renewable energy, and digital public infrastructure. He said that India is the world's fastest-growing major economy.
The prime minister's trip is the first visit to New Zealand by an Indian leader in 40 years [1]. This visit aims to unlock new trade opportunities and celebrate the contributions of the Indian diaspora living in New Zealand.
Beyond economics, Modi referenced the deep cultural and social connections between the two nations. He said that there are 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand [2], a relationship that spans from the rugby field to the moon.
Modi said the partnership is based on shared values and a mutual vision for the future. The event in Auckland served as a platform to unveil an ambitious vision for India-New Zealand cooperation, focusing on both strategic partnerships and community engagement.
“India is emerging as a leading global growth engine.”
This visit signals a strategic pivot toward strengthening ties with Pacific nations. By emphasizing digital infrastructure and renewable energy, India is positioning itself not just as a trade partner, but as a technological leader capable of exporting its 'growth engine' model to other democracies.
