India and New Zealand have formalised a major defence and security agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The pact was signed following extensive discussions between Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Mr. Christopher Luxon, in New Delhi on March 18, 2025. The agreement marks a significant milestone in defence industry collaboration, counter-terrorism efforts, and strategic partnership development between the two nations.

Key Highlights of the India-New Zealand Defence Pact

The newly signed defence and security agreement includes a roadmap for cooperation in the defence industry, focusing on:

• Joint Defence Manufacturing and Technology Sharing: Both nations have agreed to enhance collaboration in defence technology and explore opportunities in joint defence production to promote self-reliance.
• Counter-Terrorism and Anti-Separatist Measures: India and New Zealand reaffirmed their commitment to combat terrorism and prevent the spread of extremist ideologies. The pact outlines joint intelligence-sharing mechanisms and coordination to curb cross-border terrorism.
• Maritime Security in the Indo-Pacific: Recognising the importance of a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific, the agreement lays out a framework for naval cooperation and information sharing to ensure maritime stability.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Stance on Security and Terrorism

Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi expressed serious concerns about anti-India activities by unlawful elements in New Zealand and urged strict action against those responsible for terrorist attacks and separatist agendas. He emphasised India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and highlighted the importance of shared intelligence and collaborative action to tackle emerging security threats.

“India stands firmly against any form of extremism or terrorism and expects strong cooperation from our partners in ensuring that such elements do not find safe havens,” Mr. Modi stated during the joint press conference.

New Zealand’s Commitment to Regional Security and Strategic Concerns

Prime Minister Mr. Christopher Luxon reiterated New Zealand’s commitment to addressing shared strategic concerns in the Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted New Zealand’s dedication to:

• Promoting Maritime Security: Supporting India’s vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific through collaborative naval operations and information sharing.
• Enhancing Strategic Dialogue: Increasing high-level exchanges and dialogues to address regional challenges and ensure peace and stability.
• Countering Separatist Elements: Assuring India of New Zealand’s resolve to take firm action against individuals or organisations promoting anti-India agendas.

Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Talks to Bolster Economic Ties

In addition to defence and security collaboration, India and New Zealand have agreed to initiate negotiations for a mutually beneficial free trade agreement (FTA). The FTA aims to:

• Enhance Trade and Investment: Boost bilateral trade by reducing tariffs and promoting investment in key sectors.
• Focus on Agriculture, Dairy, and Pharma: Facilitate greater market access for agricultural products, dairy items, and pharmaceutical goods to strengthen economic cooperation.
• Foster Technological Collaboration: Promote the exchange of technology and expertise in food processing and other high-growth industries.

Strengthening Agricultural and Dairy Trade

Given New Zealand’s expertise in dairy production and agri-tech, the FTA is expected to open new avenues for India’s dairy sector while also facilitating New Zealand’s entry into India’s vast agricultural market. Both countries aim to establish a framework for knowledge sharing and sustainable agricultural practices that benefit their economies.

Maritime and Indo-Pacific Cooperation: A Strategic Priority

Both India and New Zealand reiterated their commitment to maintaining a free and secure Indo-Pacific region, recognising its strategic significance for global trade and security. The two nations will:

• Expand Naval Cooperation: Conduct joint maritime exercises and naval patrols to ensure freedom of navigation and combat piracy.
• Enhance Information Sharing: Strengthen information-sharing frameworks for improved situational awareness in the region.
• Collaborate on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Build capacity to respond swiftly to natural disasters and emergencies.

India’s Policy of Development Over Expansionism

During the discussions, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s stance on “development over expansionism,” underscoring that India’s focus lies on inclusive growth, regional cooperation, and sustainable development. He stressed that India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific revolves around prosperity through partnership and safeguarding the region’s security interests.

“Our partnership with New Zealand reflects a shared commitment to advancing regional stability and fostering inclusive growth that benefits all nations,” Mr. Modi said.

Combating Extremism and Separatism: A Shared Priority

The agreement also highlights a coordinated strategy to combat extremism and separatist movements, with both nations agreeing to:

• Monitor Anti-India Activities: New Zealand has pledged to monitor and take action against extremist groups attempting to use its soil for anti-India activities.
• Exchange Intelligence and Best Practices: Strengthen intelligence-sharing networks to track and eliminate potential threats.

A New Era of Strategic Partnership

The signing of the India-New Zealand defence and security agreement signifies a new era of strategic partnership between the two nations. With enhanced defence ties, a focus on combating terrorism, and a commitment to regional security, the partnership is poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Indo-Pacific region.

Economic Growth through Bilateral Cooperation

As negotiations for a free trade agreement progress, India and New Zealand aim to bolster economic ties and facilitate greater collaboration in agriculture, dairy, and pharmaceutical sectors. The agreement is expected to unlock new opportunities for businesses and foster innovation-driven growth in both nations.

Conclusion: Strengthening Ties for a Secure Future

The formalisation of the defence and security pact between India and New Zealand represents a significant step towards enhancing bilateral relations and ensuring peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. With a shared commitment to countering terrorism, promoting trade, and safeguarding regional stability, India and New Zealand are well-positioned to strengthen their partnership and chart a path for sustained growth and security in the years ahead.

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