(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Nov 7 (KNN) Marking the landmark visit of Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to New Zealand with the largest-ever Indian business delegation, the India–New Zealand Business Forum brought together government officials, industry leaders, and business stakeholders from both countries to strengthen economic ties and explore new partnership opportunities.

The fireside chat between Union Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay stood out as a key event, reaffirming both nations' dedication to enhancing economic ties and highlighting the significance of the ongoing FTA negotiations in strengthening bilateral trade.

The discussions built on the renewed momentum in bilateral relations following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rt. Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand, in India in March 2025, where both leaders agreed to pursue a comprehensive and forward-looking trade agreement.

During his visit to Auckland and Rotorua, the Union Minister interacted with several prominent New Zealand business leaders, including Carmen Vicelich, CEO of Valocity; Ranjay Sikka, CEO of Slumberzone; Nathan Guy, Chairman of the Meat Industry Association; and Tony Clifford, Managing Director, Pan Pac.

The interactions reflected the growing interest in expanding cooperation with India across diverse sectors such as agriculture, tourism, technology, education, sports, gaming, and drone technology. Given India's significant advancements in the space sector, including its recent lunar missions, space collaboration was identified as a promising area for future engagement. At Rotorua, the Commerce Minister addressed a CEO Roundtable attended by members of the Indian business delegation and CEOs from leading New Zealand enterprises. He reiterated the significance of the FTA as a symbol of bilateral friendship, trust, and strategic partnership, while highlighting India's attractiveness as a global investment destination offering vast opportunities for value addition and innovation.

The Commerce Minister, along with Todd McClay, also engaged with members of the Indian diaspora in both Auckland and Rotorua. In Auckland, Rt. Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand, joined them in addressing the Indian community. He emphasized the vital role of the Indian diaspora as a“living bridge” between India and New Zealand, echoing the sentiments expressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Commerce Minister encouraged members of the diaspora to continue contributing to the growth and development of New Zealand-their Karm-Bhoomi-while staying deeply connected to their roots in India, and to take on leadership roles in strengthening communities in both countries.

The Indian business delegation engaged with leading New Zealand enterprises and visited Red Stag, Fonterra's Dairy and Food Innovation Headquarters, and the Auckland University Innovation Hub to explore trade and investment opportunities.

The visit highlighted New Zealand as a strategic partner in India's growth and reaffirmed India's commitment to deepening bilateral economic ties and long-term cooperation.

(KNN Bureau)

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