New Zealand

The New Zealand Parliament held its final sitting on September 23, with parties focussing on cost of living, economic management and public services.

The Free Trade Agreement provides duty-free access for 100% of India's exports to New Zealand.

The FTA moves closer to implementation after New Zealand lawmakers approve the agreement, with India aiming to bring it into force soon.

Both the nations eye deeper ties with India in several major sectors such as critical minerals and technology, consul generals of the nations remarked.

MetService, New Zealand's weather bureau, said the cold outbreak was expected to persist for the next two days, bringing snow or sleet to near sea level across the eastern South Island.

Addressing the gathering, the Kiwi prime minister said he has been a "great fan" of India for a long period of time.

PM Modi emphasised that the two nations' shared democratic values, diversity and commitment to sustainable development provide a robust foundation for an ambitious, forward-looking economic partnership.

"A firm belief in democratic values makes us natural partners. Moreover, as two maritime nations, our close cooperation lends new strength to the Indo-Pacific, and our relationship can infuse new energy into achieving our goals of peace," PM Modi said.

Addressing the Indian diaspora in Auckland, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's rapid growth, digital innovation and stronger ties with New Zealand.

A joint statement noted that Modi and Luxon exchanged views on the Indo-Pacific, reaffirming their shared commitment to a free, open, and prosperous region.

Modi said India and New Zealand have committed themselves to strengthening bilateral trade and commercial ties with the signing of the Free Trade Agreement.

The stop at Indonesia is the first leg of the prime minister's six-day tour that also includes Australia and New Zealand.

Australia and New Zealand criticised the launch. The latter stated that the alert about the launch was informed only few hours prior to the launch.