In a significant move, New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay has embarked on his first official visit to India, signalling the new government’s priority to develop a close relationship with the country. This strategic visit, marked by its focused agenda, demonstrates the importance New Zealand places on its ties with India.
Minister McClay, accompanied by only one staff member, aims to initiate dialogues to strengthen bilateral relations. His one-day visit includes meetings with his Indian counterpart and key business groups to discuss trade and investment opportunities and potential areas of cooperation.
A central topic of discussion is the potential for a New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), particularly in the dairy sector. Despite challenges, Minister McClay notes India’s history of trade agreements with other countries and advocates for deals based on rules-based trade.
He emphasises that the New Zealand-India relationship extends beyond trade and cricket, highlighting opportunities for collaboration in international organisations and India’s role in the Pacific.
This visit is the beginning of a series of engagements with India, with further visits planned by McClay and the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the new year to continue these discussions. Additionally, Minister McClay will stop in Singapore on his return journey to engage with business leaders, extending his diplomatic outreach.
Minister McClay’s visit to India represents a strategic effort by New Zealand to deepen diplomatic and trade relations, reflecting a broader vision for the country’s engagement in the Asia-Pacific region.
