Overview
- At events in Auckland, Piyush Goyal and Todd McClay reiterated commitment to a deal grounded in mutual respect, realistic expectations, and a long-term vision.
- Officials said negotiations have made great progress, with an unprecedented number of rounds and a solution-focused approach that avoids fixed deadlines.
- The fourth round is underway in Auckland this week, with both sides emphasizing a balanced outcome that benefits citizens and businesses.
- McClay highlighted agri-tech as a big part of the talks, with New Zealand offering know-how to support India’s farmer income goals, alongside cooperation in agriculture, maritime, aerospace, and defence.
- Two-way trade reached USD 1.75 billion in 2023-24, and the countries are pursuing direct Air India–Air New Zealand flights by 2028 to strengthen people-to-people links.