Auckland [New Zealand], July 11 (ANI): New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Saturday (local time) described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit as a 'historic' milestone, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 40 years.

During delegation-level talks in Auckland, Luxon announced that the two nations would establish a Strategic Partnership to provide a broader framework for expanding cooperation beyond the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signalling a new phase in India-New Zealand relations.

'I think we've made tremendous progress in a very short period of time on the trade agenda. But today's focus is about more than just the FTA. It's about where we go to next in this relationship and how we broaden that out. I know we are very proud to announce that we will be forming a strategic partnership which will give the relationship more framework and breadth for us to continue to expand as we go forward from here,' the New Zealand PM said.

PM Luxon recalled his visit to India last year and thanked the Indian Prime Minister for his personal efforts in strengthening ties between the two countries.

'It is a pleasure and honour to host you here today. It's a truly historic event, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years. This visit is also a significant milestone in the New Zealand-India relationship,' he said.

Recalling his visit to India in 2025, the New Zealand Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

'When I visited India last year, you welcomed me and my delegation with great warmth and tremendous generosity, and I'm therefore delighted to welcome you here. Thank you for the relationship and thank you for what you've put into it personally,' he said.

Later today, the Prime Minister is scheduled to interact with prominent business and sports personalities. Reflecting the strong people-to-people ties between India and New Zealand, the Prime Minister will also address a large gathering of the Indian diaspora, as per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

PM Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday and was greeted by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, with whom he shared a warm embrace. This visit is taking place at the invitation of Prime Minister Luxon.

Following the signing of a Free Trade Agreement in April this year, this visit is expected to act as a catalyst to generate further momentum in trade and bilateral relations. The two leaders previously held a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on March 17, 2025, during Prime Minister Luxon's official visit to India. (ANI)