New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met with President Droupadi Murmu, discussing topics from cultural connections to regional and global security. President Murmu, currently on a three-nation tour, arrived in New Zealand on Wednesday.
"Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand met with President Droupadi Murmu. Both leaders discussed various issues, from strengthening cultural ties to commitments for regional and global security," President Murmu shared on X. Previously, New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters also met with President Murmu. They recognized advancements in bilateral relations and explored ways to enhance cooperation in multiple areas.
Additionally, they placed a wreath at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in Wellington, New Zealand. New Zealand Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro warmly welcomed President Murmu, who was greeted with a traditional Maori "Powhiri" ceremony in Wellington and was also given a Guard of Honour.
Today, in a special briefing, the MEA announced that India and New Zealand are set to sign an agreement on customs procedures to strengthen trade ties. MEA Secretary East, Jaideep Mazumdar, mentioned that both countries are keen on assisting farmers to export fruits and vegetables.
"During this visit, we are signing an agreement on customs procedures which will certainly aid trade between the two countries, and we aim to proceed step by step to explore what else we can do. Both sides are interested in helping our farmers export fruits and vegetables to each other," Secretary East explained at a special briefing on President Murmu's visit to New Zealand.
During her state visit, President Murmu will meet with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, address an education conference, and interact with the Indian community and friends of India, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Before New Zealand, President Murmu visited Fiji, where she received Fiji's highest civilian award, 'Companion of the Order of Fiji.' She considered it an honor reflecting the deep friendship between the two nations.
President Murmu left New Delhi on Sunday for a six-day visit to Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste, as per the MEA. In the final leg of her tour, President Murmu will visit Timor Leste at the invitation of President Jose Ramos-Horta, followed by engagements on August 10.
