New Zealand Minister of Police Mark Mitchell, part of the visiting delegation led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for placing a strong focus on sports and recreation, recognizing its importance for India’s development.

Speaking to IANS, Mitchell said, “PM Modi has emphasised a strong focus on sports and recreation, recognising its importance for India. The same applies to us — we understand how vital sports are for our country and aim to strengthen this relationship further. As the Minister for Sport and Recreation, I will be holding meetings on this subject. There is much we can learn from each other, and we are committed to deepening these ties. Sports diplomacy is a powerful tool, especially in today’s rapidly changing and uncertain world.”

Mitchell highlighted the potential for increased cooperation between India and New Zealand, particularly in sports and primary industries. “I believe there are many areas where we can cooperate, work together, and learn from each other. Both our countries rely heavily on agriculture and primary industries, offering numerous opportunities for collaboration,” he added.

Earlier in the day, India and New Zealand announced the launch of negotiations for a comprehensive and mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The announcement followed a meeting between India’s Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, and New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment, Todd McClay. According to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the negotiations aim to strengthen economic and trade ties between the two nations.

Both countries “share a longstanding partnership founded on shared democratic values, strong people-to-people ties, and economic complementarities,” the ministry said.

The India-New Zealand FTA negotiations are expected to deliver balanced outcomes that enhance supply chain integration and improve market access, reflecting a shared vision for a stronger economic partnership.

Luxon, who will be in India until March 20, is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers, senior officials, business leaders, media representatives, and members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand.