Forging Economic Ties
The camaraderie between New Zealand and India has taken a momentous stride as Trade and Export Growth and Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor embarked on a consequential three-day journey to New Delhi.
This diplomatic endeavor not only marks a pivotal juncture but also holds the promise of fostering an enriched bilateral economic relationship between the two nations.
A Shared Economic Vision
“Establishing a robust economic alliance with India stands as a vital objective for New Zealand, and our government has been diligently advancing this goal,”
asserted Damien O’Connor, reflecting on his productive visit. This marked his second trip to India in a year, underlining the intensified commitment of both parties toward building stronger ties.
Nurturing Multifaceted Bonds
During his stay, O’Connor convened fruitful discussions with his Indian ministerial counterparts and influential figures from India’s business landscape, injecting vigor into the bilateral partnership. He lent unwavering support to a sizable New Zealand business delegation, providing momentum as they explored avenues to deepen connections with Indian counterparts.
“I have held promising meetings with Air India, the esteemed dairy cooperative Amul, as well as distinguished business leaders through the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Confederation of Indian Industry,”
shared O’Connor, shedding light on the multifarious dialogues that shaped his visit.
Setting the Course for Partnership
In a resounding affirmation of their shared aspirations, Damien O’Connor and his Indian counterpart, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, charted the course for their collaboration through a Joint Statement. This unequivocal declaration delineates the priorities that will guide both nations in the upcoming year.
“This statement serves as a clear indicator of our collective goals for the near future. We are steadfastly focused on crafting a comprehensive partnership that holds the promise of embracing novel dimensions,”
remarked Damien O’Connor, underscoring the dynamic nature of their evolving relationship.
Priority Touchpoints
Notable advancements in their dialogue included the elevation of the Air Services Agreement. In conjunction with Civil Aviation Minister Hon Jyotiraditya Scindia, O’Connor fostered discussions to bolster air connectivity between New Zealand and India.
This upgraded agreement not only facilitates greater service liberalization but also paves the way for expanded code-sharing flight opportunities, with Auckland and New Delhi poised to benefit.
The primary sector emerged as a paramount arena for partnership development. Collaborations spanning agriculture and horticulture were propelled forward through exchanges with counterparts Hon Parshottam Rupala and Hon Narendra Singh Tomar.
A Holistic Vision
O’Connor’s strategic vision extends beyond economic realms. He championed the reinforcement of India-New Zealand Ministerial and business-to-business relationships. Moreover, he emphasized the inherent value of cross-border educational collaborations, a testament to the comprehensive approach taken in shaping this partnership.
Envisioning the Future
During an address to the Confederation of Indian Industry, O’Connor elucidated New Zealand’s aspirations for its engagement with India. The event bore witness to a convergence of Indian and New Zealand business communities, joining forces to outline a shared vision for a contemporary economic partnership.
“This visit stands as a resounding success, one that propels the potential for a direct flight connecting New Zealand and India – a step that will invariably boost tourism, business, and education,” remarked O’Connor, articulating the tangible outcomes of his sojourn.
A Holistic Vision
In a larger context, the mutually agreed-upon priorities hold the potential to channel New Zealand businesses into India’s thriving markets, aligning with their strategic intent to diversify trade opportunities and foster robust two-way trade relations.
As O’Connor prepares to depart, his itinerary takes him to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where discussions with the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council and fellow Ministerial counterparts will ensue, further solidifying New Zealand’s role on the global diplomatic stage.
Sources: THX News & New Zealand Government.
