Narendra Modi (L) with Christopher Luxon in New Delhi, on March 17, 2025. (Photo: X/@narendramodi)
New Delhi: India and New Zealand solidified their defence and security partnership by signing a comprehensive memorandum of understanding (MoU) in New Delhi on Monday. This landmark agreement was formalized during a meeting between the prime minister, Narendra Modi, and his New Zealand counterpart, Christopher Luxon.
The MoU aims to institutionalize defence cooperation between India and New Zealand, establishing a structured framework for regular engagements. The agreement encompasses several key components that will deepen military ties between the two nations.
A central aspect of the agreement focuses on joint training and exercises. Both nations will participate in coordinated military training programs and field exercises, enhancing interoperability and mutual understanding between their armed forces. These collaborative activities will facilitate the exchange of best practices and strengthen tactical coordination in potential joint operations.
Recognizing the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region, the agreement emphasizes robust collaboration in maritime security. This cooperation aims to ensure the safety of vital sea lanes, counter non-traditional threats, and uphold a rules-based international order in shared waters. Additionally, the pact facilitates enhanced intelligence sharing mechanisms, particularly concerning maritime domain awareness, to address common security challenges effectively. This improved information exchange will enable both countries to respond more swiftly to emerging regional threats.
Modi highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating, “We believe in the policy of development, not expansionism,” subtly referencing regional security dynamics due to China’s growing assertiveness and expanding military footprint. He emphasized that both nations are committed to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.
The New Zealand prime minister, Luxon, acknowledged the “challenging strategic outlook” in the Indo-Pacific and reiterated his country’s commitment to addressing shared concerns, contributing to a stable and prosperous region.
In addition to the defence MoU, New Delhi and Wellington agreed to revive negotiations for a free-trade agreement (FTA) that had been stalled for over a decade. The renewed talks aim to enhance economic ties, with the first round of negotiations scheduled for April 2025.
Furthermore, New Zealand has agreed to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI), an India-led framework for regional maritime security and cooperation. This move underscores New Zealand’s commitment to collaborating on shared strategic interests in the region.
The defence cooperation agreement builds upon a history of military collaboration between the two nations. Notably, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini made a port call in Lyttelton, Christchurch, in December 2024, and the Royal New Zealand Navy’s His Majesty’s New Zealand Ship Te Kaha is scheduled to visit Mumbai in the near future, further strengthening naval ties.
Both countries also recognized their shared military history, honouring Indian and New Zealand service personnel who have fought alongside each other over the past century. This acknowledgment reflects a deep-rooted camaraderie and mutual respect that continues to underpin their defence relationship.
Observers say the signing of the defence cooperation MoU between India and New Zealand signifies a robust commitment to enhancing security collaboration and addressing shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Coupled with the revival of FTA negotiations and New Zealand’s participation in the IPOI, this development marks a significant stride towards a comprehensive strategic partnership, fostering stability and prosperity for both nations.
