At the 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon discussed three major global changes:
Power is replacing rules.
Security is more important than economics.
Trade is shifting from efficiency to protectionism and resilient supply chains.
Luxon believes India and New Zealand, despite their size difference, could be strong partners, especially in maintaining freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific.
New Zealand is not part of the Quad but engages in regional talks with Australia, Japan, and South Korea.
India and New Zealand signed a defense agreement to improve military cooperation and restart talks on a free trade agreement.
The trade between India and New Zealand is currently under $2 billion, and challenges remain with market access for dairy and agricultural products.
New Zealand’s trade with China is much higher at $24 billion, despite broader strategic concerns.
Air India and Air New Zealand signed a codeshare agreement, possibly leading to direct flights by 2028.
PM Modi raised concerns about anti-India protests and a Khalistan referendum in New Zealand, but New Zealand police ruled the protests lawful.
Luxon emphasized free speech but said foreign political issues should not divide local communities.
A closer collaboration would benefit both countries, though sensitive issues should be handled privately.
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