New Delhi – India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal landed in Rotorua, New Zealand, on Thursday, greeted by a traditional Māori welcome and its Trade Minister Todd McClay.
Goyal said the ceremony “delighted” him and showed the deep respect for Māori culture. He received a Kamdhenu cow idol, a symbol of prosperity in India, as a gift that represents growing people‑to‑people ties between the two countries.
“I’m grateful to Tania Tapsell, the Mayor of Rotorua, for the warm welcome,” Goyal posted on X. “Looking forward to the day’s engagements.”
Before arriving in Rotorua, Goyal met Air New Zealand CEO Nikhil Ravishankar. They discussed the airline’s role in regional connectivity and India’s expanding aviation market, highlighting new opportunities for both sides.
The minister has been pushing a free‑trade agreement (FTA) between India and New Zealand. “An FTA will strengthen trade and investment ties and send a strong message that the two countries are closer together,” Goyal said.
In a media briefing with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Auckland, Goyal noted how New Zealand can tap into India’s large market while Indian businesses gain from New Zealand’s innovations. He called out maritime, aerospace, defence, education, sports, and tourism as key areas for deeper cooperation.
Goyal flew to New Zealand with the largest Indian delegation ever, underscoring the shared commitment to a robust partnership.
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Source: ianslive
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