New Zealand's Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, wrapped up a successful visit to India from 10-13 March, marking a pivotal step in elevating the relationship between the two nations.

Peters expressed his satisfaction with the visit, emphasising its significance in aligning with the Coalition Government's commitment to enhancing New Zealand-India relations for mutual benefits.

The diplomatic efforts focused on building a broad-based, mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries.

In New Delhi, Peters met with his Indian counterpart, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, reinforcing the shared strategic perspectives on security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Both ministers pledged to work collaboratively to unlock opportunities, with high-level political visits expected in 2024 to further solidify the burgeoning relationship.

During his stay, Peters engaged with India's Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, fostering discussions on strategic security and defence, social and cultural links, trade and economic cooperation, and joint efforts to combat climate change.

Highlighting the growing importance of India to New Zealand, Peters mentioned the 300,000-strong Indian diaspora, making India the second-largest source of international students and the largest source of skilled migrants for New Zealand.

The Foreign Minister's itinerary included visits to India's new Parliamentary complex and attendance at a Women's Indian Premier League (IPL) match.

Peters commended the connections between the two nations, noting the use of New Zealand wool in India's new Parliament carpets and expressing pleasure in witnessing the passion for women's cricket in India.

In a panel discussion and reception, Peters explored economic connectivity with Pacific Island countries alongside representatives from the Pacific Islands, Indian government, and businesses.

Stressing the deep historical and commercial ties between New Zealand and India in the Pacific region, Peters called for increased collaboration.

Trade and economic ties were a central focus of the visit, with Peters highlighting the potential for enhanced economic partnership.

Meetings with Indian business leaders in New Delhi and Gujarat indicated promising opportunities in various sectors, from education to agro-technology, air connectivity, and tourism.

The visit also saw the implementation of an enhanced Air Services Agreement, facilitating code-sharing on services between New Zealand and India.

Peters expressed confidence in the possibility of direct flights between Auckland and New Delhi in the next few years, envisioning it as a transformative step for cultural, people-to-people, and commercial ties.

Peters' visit extended to Gujarat, where he engaged with Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel and other key government figures.

The Foreign Minister commended Gujarat's role in India's economic success and stressed the importance of engaging with Indian states for enhanced strategic and economic cooperation.

The trip concluded with Peters visiting the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and meeting with representatives of the Jama Masjid Mosque in New Delhi.

Peters praised India's diversity and rich spiritual heritage, highlighting the importance of understanding and celebrating the varied communities that contribute to the shared future of both nations.