'Bond with India remains unwavering': PM Modi after meeting diaspora in New Zealand
Auckland, July 10
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday met members of the Indian diaspora as he begins the last leg of his three-nation visit.
He expressed deep gratitude to the Indian community and underlined how their jubilant enthusiasm was palpable upon his arrival.
"The love and affection of New Zealand's Indian community touched me deeply. They have waited four decades for the visit of an Indian Prime Minister and their extraordinary enthusiasm and warmth were visible today. Their bond with India remains unwavering," PM Modi said in a post on X.
Earlier, New Zealand's iconic Sky Tower was lit in the colours of India's national flag as Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his historic visit to the country- the first by an Indian Prime Minister in the last four decades.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the visuals of the Sky Tower in a post on X and underlined that the gesture symbolised the bonhomie between the two partners.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called his visit to New Zealand "historic" shortly after arriving in Auckland.
In a post on X, PM Modi thanked New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for welcoming him at the airport.
Sharing visuals from his welcome, PM Modi expressed optimism towards the scheduled talks with PM Luxon regarding the bilateral partnership between the two nations and the community address in Auckland.
"Look forward to holding talks with Prime Minister Luxon and discussing the complete range of the India-NZ friendship. I will also be addressing a community programme tomorrow in Auckland," PM Modi wrote.
In Auckland, PM Modi will hold bilateral discussions with his counterpart and review the entire gamut of the bilateral relationship, which has seen significant progress in the last two years, especially in the areas of trade and commerce and defence, as per a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs.
While in Auckland, Prime Minister will also interact with prominent business and sports personalities. In a reflection of the strong people-to-people ties that exist between India and New Zealand, Prime Minister will address a large gathering of the Indian Diaspora during the visit, as per MEA.
After the signing of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in April this year, the visit of Prime Minister Modi is expected to work as a catalyst and generate momentum in trade and bilateral relations. Both the PMs have also held a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on March 17, 2025 during the official visit of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to India.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The Sky Tower lit in tricolour is a beautiful gesture. These symbolic moments strengthen our cultural ties. But let's hope this visit translates into concrete economic benefits for both countries, especially for Indian students and workers there.
Finally an Indian PM in NZ after decades! The FTA signed in April was a good start, but we need more trade deals and easier visa processes for students and professionals. The diaspora is our strength abroad - happy to see them acknowledged.
The enthusiasm of the Indian community in Auckland is infectious! 🇮🇳 But I hope our government also focuses on issues like better consular services and welfare of Indians abroad. Symbolism is great, but concrete action matters too. Still, proud moment for India!
Four decades is a long time - credit to PM Modi for finally making this happen. The FTA and this visit should boost trade, especially in dairy and IT services. But I wish the article mentioned more about what the diaspora actually wants from the government.
The love for India abroad never ceases to amaze me! 🇮🇳 Seeing the Sky Tower in orange, white and green gives me goosebumps. Hope PM Modi's discussions with Luxon lead to better opportunities for Indian students and businesses in NZ. Waheguru ji blessings on this visit!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.