NEW DELHI: PM Narendra Modi arrived in Auckland Friday for the first visit by any Indian PM to New Zealand in 40 years, looking to capitalise on the landmark FTA signed earlier this year, boost defence and security cooperation and address issues related to talent mobility and education.Looking to build upon a sports cooperation MoU signed earlier, the two sides are also likely to announce initiatives for collaboration in high-performance sports to boost India’s chances of hosting the Olympic Games in 2036. Both countries are currently celebrating 100 years of sporting ties and, as official sources said, looking to translate the centenary partnership into tangible outcomes for athletes, coaches and sporting ecosystems. Like his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese, New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon is also expected to back India’s bid to host the Olympics.Modi was received at the airport by Luxon. “This visit is historic, being the first prime ministerial visit to NZ in four decades. I look forward to holding talks with PM Luxon and discussing the complete range of the India-NZ friendship. I will also be addressing a community programme tomorrow in Auckland,” Modi posted on X.In defence – as the two sides ramp up joint exercises, training, and port visits – they are also looking to finalise a roadmap for bilateral defence industry collaboration. Both sides see defence and security cooperation as essential for ensuring the safety and security of sea lanes of communication and favour regular dialogue for enhancement of maritime safety.As a significant component of the newly signed trade agreement, mobility will be an important focus area for India in the meeting as it looks to improve the prospects of high-skilled Indian workers. India has stressed before NZ and other countries that hassles faced by such professionals over a period of time have the effect of a de facto non-tariff barrier. Announcements around easier student visas, academic collaborations, and professional mobility are expected during the visit. Early implementation of the FTA will also be a major focus area for the leaders.India is encouraging creation of more opportunities for Indian students seeking quality education and both sides are also working to facilitate the mobility of professionals and skilled workers, while also addressing the issue of irregular migration. Both PMs will also reaffirm their commitment to supporting an open, inclusive, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific where sovereignty and territorial integrity are respected.
