Auckland, July 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian community in Auckland for its invaluable contribution to strengthening relations between India and New Zealand, while highlighting the centuries-old cultural and civilisational links shared by the two nations. Addressing a large gathering of the Indian diaspora during his official visit to New Zealand, the Prime Minister described overseas Indians as a powerful bridge connecting the two democracies through culture, commerce, education and shared values.
The event was attended by thousands of members of the Indian-origin community, business leaders, students, professionals and representatives of cultural organisations, reflecting the vibrant presence of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.
Indian Diaspora Celebrated as a Bridge Between Nations
Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the role played by the Indian community in strengthening bilateral ties over several decades.
He said overseas Indians have contributed significantly by:
- Promoting Indian culture and traditions
- Encouraging business partnerships
- Strengthening educational exchanges
- Supporting tourism
- Advancing innovation and entrepreneurship
- Enhancing people-to-people connectivity
The Prime Minister noted that the achievements of the Indian diaspora have strengthened India’s global image while enriching New Zealand’s multicultural society.
Centuries-Old Cultural Connections
A major focus of the Prime Minister’s address was the deep historical relationship between India and New Zealand.
He highlighted the shared democratic values of both countries and emphasised that cultural understanding continues to serve as one of the strongest pillars of bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Modi also referred to the growing popularity of Indian festivals, yoga, cuisine, cinema and classical arts in New Zealand, describing culture as a lasting bond that brings people together beyond geographical boundaries.
Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The community programme followed the announcement that India and New Zealand had elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The Prime Minister explained that the new partnership would strengthen cooperation across several sectors, including:
- Trade and investment
- Defence and maritime security
- Education
- Technology and innovation
- Renewable energy
- Agriculture
- Critical minerals
- Climate action
- Cultural and academic exchanges
He said the newly launched Roadmap to 2030 would guide future collaboration between the two countries.
India’s Transformation
During his speech, Prime Minister Modi also highlighted India’s rapid progress in recent years.
He spoke about developments in:
- Digital public infrastructure
- Startup ecosystem
- Manufacturing
- Renewable energy
- Infrastructure development
- Space technology
- Innovation
According to the Prime Minister, India’s transformation is creating new opportunities for international cooperation, including stronger engagement with New Zealand.
Youth and Education
Prime Minister Modi encouraged greater educational collaboration between institutions in India and New Zealand.
He stressed that students and young professionals would play a central role in building the next phase of bilateral relations through research, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Prime Minister also encouraged members of the Indian community to continue supporting educational exchanges and cultural programmes that strengthen mutual understanding.
Warm Reception in Auckland
The community gathering featured colourful cultural performances representing India’s diverse traditions before the Prime Minister’s address.
Members of the Indian diaspora welcomed the growing partnership between the two countries and expressed optimism about expanded opportunities in business, education and cultural cooperation.
The enthusiastic reception reflected the strong emotional connection maintained by overseas Indians with their heritage.
Looking Ahead
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to building even stronger relations with New Zealand based on mutual respect, shared democratic values and cultural understanding.
He urged the Indian community to continue acting as ambassadors of India’s heritage while strengthening friendship between the two nations.
The Auckland community event underscored the enduring importance of cultural diplomacy and highlighted the Indian diaspora’s central role in advancing India–New Zealand relations under the newly established Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
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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