Auckland, July 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a vibrant gathering of the Indian diaspora in Auckland, celebrating the centuries-old cultural relationship between India and New Zealand while describing the overseas Indian community as a vital bridge connecting the two nations. The event formed one of the highlights of the Prime Minister’s official visit and reflected the growing importance of people-to-people ties in strengthening bilateral relations.
Welcomed by an enthusiastic audience comprising professionals, entrepreneurs, students, community leaders and families of Indian origin, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the contributions made by the Indian community towards New Zealand’s economic growth, multicultural society and closer India–New Zealand relations.
Indian Diaspora Described as a Living Bridge
During his address, Prime Minister Modi praised members of the Indian community for preserving India’s rich cultural traditions while integrating successfully into New Zealand’s diverse society.
He noted that the Indian diaspora has played an important role in strengthening cooperation through:
- Business partnerships
- Educational exchanges
- Tourism
- Cultural programmes
- Innovation and entrepreneurship
- Community engagement
The Prime Minister said that every member of the Indian community serves as an ambassador of India’s heritage, values and democratic traditions.
Celebrating Shared Cultural Heritage
A major focus of the speech was the deep cultural relationship between India and New Zealand.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted how shared values such as democracy, diversity, mutual respect and inclusiveness continue to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
He also appreciated the growing popularity of Indian festivals, cuisine, yoga, classical arts and cinema among New Zealanders, describing cultural exchanges as an important foundation for stronger bilateral relations.
Stronger Partnership for the Future
Referring to the newly announced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and New Zealand, Prime Minister Modi said both countries are entering a new phase of cooperation.
He explained that the partnership will support collaboration in:
- Trade and investment
- Education
- Technology
- Innovation
- Agriculture
- Renewable energy
- Maritime security
- People-to-people exchanges
According to the Prime Minister, stronger cultural understanding will continue to complement expanding economic and strategic cooperation.
India’s Global Transformation
Prime Minister Modi also spoke about India’s rapid development and ongoing transformation.
He highlighted progress in:
- Digital public infrastructure
- Infrastructure development
- Startup ecosystem
- Manufacturing
- Renewable energy
- Innovation
- Space technology
The Prime Minister said India’s continued economic growth is creating new opportunities for global partnerships, including with New Zealand.
Youth and Education
Addressing students and young professionals in the audience, Prime Minister Modi encouraged greater educational collaboration between institutions in both countries.
He said young people will play an important role in shaping the future of India–New Zealand relations through research, innovation, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange.
Educational institutions from both countries are expected to expand cooperation under the newly announced Roadmap to 2030.
Warm Reception in Auckland
The community programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from thousands of members of the Indian diaspora.
Cultural performances showcasing India’s diversity were organised before the Prime Minister’s address, reflecting the strong emotional connection maintained by overseas Indians with their heritage.
Community representatives welcomed the strengthening of bilateral relations and expressed optimism regarding future cooperation.
Looking Ahead
Prime Minister Modi concluded his address by reaffirming India’s commitment to building an even stronger partnership with New Zealand based on mutual trust, democratic values and shared prosperity.
He encouraged members of the Indian community to continue strengthening cultural, educational and economic ties while serving as an enduring link between the two friendly nations.
The event reinforced the central role of the Indian diaspora in advancing India–New Zealand relations and highlighted culture as one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation.
Source: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India
Original Report:
https://www.mea.gov.in/
https://www.pmindia.gov.in/
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