Modi said both countries agreed to formalise their defence and security cooperation and create a roadmap for collaboration in the defence industry. He also mentioned their shared stance against terrorism, referencing attacks like the 2019 Christchurch shooting and the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
“We both are unanimous against terrorism. Whether it is the Christchurch terrorist attack of March 15, 2019, or the Mumbai attack of November 26, 2008, terrorism in any form is unacceptable,” he said.
He also expressed confidence that New Zealand would continue to cooperate with India in tackling illegal activities and radical elements.”We will continue to cooperate together against terrorist, separatist and radical elements. In this context, we shared our concern about anti-India activities by some illegal elements in New Zealand,” he said.
The leaders also decided to begin negotiations for a free trade agreement. “This will boost the potential of mutual trade and investment. Mutual cooperation and investment will be encouraged in areas like dairy, food processing, and pharma,” he said.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region, with Modi emphasising that their approach focuses on development, not expansion. “We believe in the policy of development, not expansionism,” he said.
The New Zealand prime minister said Modi and he discussed a challenging strategic outlook in the Indo-Pacific.
“I reiterated our strong commitment to address shared concerns over our respective interests in contributing to a prosperous Indo-Pacific,” Luxon said.
