In a significant development marking closer India-New Zealand relations, New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters stated in New Delhi on May 30, 2025, that his country is working more closely with India in the fields of defence and security. Speaking at a fireside chat organised by the Ananta Aspen Centre, Mr. Peters underlined the importance of this enhanced cooperation amidst a global environment marked by great uncertainty, instability, and disorder.

Mr. Peters announced that a recently signed Defence Cooperation Arrangement between India and New Zealand will facilitate stronger ties between their militaries. This reflects a shared commitment to regional security, with New Zealand playing a key role in safeguarding trade routes through its leadership of the Combined Task Force 150, which is tasked with countering terrorism, smuggling, and piracy in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. Such cooperation is particularly vital given the current security challenges affecting the Indo-Pacific region.

The Deputy Prime Minister also elaborated on New Zealand’s broader foreign policy reset which is significantly increasing focus and resources on South and Southeast Asia. He described India as a geopolitical giant and an indispensable security actor in regional and global arenas. Given the complex and unpredictable international environment, Mr. Peters stressed the need for more diplomacy, engagement, and compromise to ensure peace and stability.

New Zealand’s foreign policy reset is based on three main pillars: the realism of its government’s approach to international relations, the importance of diplomacy in today’s troubled world, and a steadfast belief that small states matter and all states are equal. This approach guides New Zealand’s active involvement in the Indo-Pacific and its closer ties with India.

Mr. Peters also stressed the critical importance of freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region, describing it as crucial for both New Zealand and India. As a maritime nation, New Zealand recognises that secure and open sea lanes are vital for trade and strategic security, especially in a region witnessing growing geopolitical tensions.

This visit follows the official-level meeting Mr. Peters held with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on May 29, 2025, further solidifying bilateral cooperation. Earlier this year, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited India in March, where both countries launched negotiations for a Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (CFTA). Deputy PM Peters described these negotiations as a breakthrough in India-New Zealand economic relations, highlighting the broadening of ties beyond security to economic collaboration.

In addition to his official engagements, Mr. Peters met with Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and discussed topics including democratic governance and recent political developments in both countries. This reflects New Zealand’s interest in engaging with diverse stakeholders in India’s vibrant democracy.

Overall, New Zealand’s growing cooperation with India in defence, security, trade, and diplomacy signifies a deepening strategic partnership aligned with shared interests in regional stability and economic growth. The emphasis on maritime security and freedom of navigation highlights the common concerns of middle powers in maintaining a stable Indo-Pacific order. As global uncertainties continue, such partnerships will be crucial in shaping the future of the region

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