New Delhi: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit New Zealand. The invitation was extended to PM Modi by Jacinda Ardern while attending the Vishwa Sadbhavana program in Auckland which was part of the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame Awards jointly organized by NID Foundation and Indian Weekender. In this program, Foreign Minister Dr. S. Two books based on Prime Minister Modi’s Governance Model and Successful Governance were also unveiled in Jaishankar’s presence. In her address as the chief guest, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, “New Zealand and India have many things in common,” she said in Waghara.
Both countries serious about democratic traditions: Jacinda Ardern
While inviting Prime Minister Modi, he said, “In a world that is becoming increasingly unstable, New Zealand and India have many things in common. Both countries adhere to our democratic traditions and have a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.” They have respect for climate change and different cultures and traditions. An opportunity like today will not only deepen our relationship but also enhance our aspirations.”
India-New Zealand ties stronger than ever in 70 years: Ardern
Ardern further discussed opportunities for partnership between the two countries with Foreign Minister Jaishankar and said, “Today on the 70th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between New Zealand and India, I am pleased to say that the relationship between the two countries is a first. Despite the global challenges, trade between the two countries has continued and I see great potential for growth in the future.”
Contribution of Indians to New Zealand’s development is commendable: PM of New Zealand
Ardern said, “I believe that the bridge between the two countries has been and always will be our people. Indians began living here in the 1890s and today constitute the largest ethnic community in New Zealand, our population. Surprisingly, Hindi is the 5th most spoken language in New Zealand. The contribution of Indians to the progress of New Zealand has been commendable.” He said that along with Minister Jaishankar, New Zealand Post also released a special postage stamp commemorating 75 years of Indian Independence.