Summarised by Centrist
New Zealand has signed a defence cooperation agreement with India, strengthening military ties and committing to greater maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, where both leaders pledged deeper defence collaboration, regular military exchanges, and increased coordination on regional stability.
With China’s growing presence in the Indo-Pacific, New Zealand is aligning more closely with India on security matters. The agreement includes joint military exercises, high-level defence visits, and naval port calls, with Modi reaffirming a commitment to “development, not expansionism.” The deal also covers maritime security, ensuring safe trade routes and preventing disruptions in regional waters.
Modi raised concerns about “anti-India activities” in New Zealand, urging stronger cooperation on counterterrorism and extremism. The leaders cited the Christchurch mosque attack and the 2008 Mumbai attacks, agreeing on the need to crack down on terrorist networks, online radicalisation, and illegal funding streams.
Beyond security, the talks led to free trade negotiations, focusing on agriculture, dairy, and pharmaceuticals. Luxon noted the fast-growing Indian-Kiwi community, which is now the third-largest ethnic group in New Zealand and a source of skilled migrants. Both leaders agreed to streamline worker mobility and tackle illegal migration.
