In a turn of recent events, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) paid a diplomatic visit to New Zealand and Australia. The focus of this meeting was mainly on various geo-political issues like the contributions of India and New Zealand together in shaping the Indo-Pacific region. In addition, the present security situation in the Indo-Pacific along with the implications of the Ukraine conflict were also discussed.
India-New Zealand Relations: A Historical Overview
India and New Zealand have enjoyed a long, friendly, and growing relationship that dates back to the 1800s. Indians made their way to Christchurch as early as the 1850s, followed by larger groups of immigrants from Punjab and Gujarat in the 1890s. Further bonding occurred during the Gallipoli battle in 1915 when Indian troops fought alongside Anzacs.
Cordial Political Relations Anchored on Shared Values
The political kinship between India and New Zealand is deep-rooted in their shared allegiance to the Commonwealth, parliamentary democracy, and the English language. India set up its diplomatic representation in 1950, starting with a Trade Commission, later upgraded to a High Commission.
Bilateral Cooperation & Resilience during the Covid-19 Pandemic
The pandemic brought further cooperation between the two nations, particularly in ensuring the continuity of supply chains of essential commodities, medicines, and vaccines. Assistance was also provided for the repatriation of nationals stranded due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Vibrant Trade, Education, and Tourism Sectors
New Zealand is India’s 11th largest trading partner, with total two-way trade valued at US$1.80 billion in 2020. Key contributors are the education and tourism sectors. For instance, India provides the second-highest number of international students to New Zealand.
India-New Zealand Cultural Bonds
Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, Rakshabandhan, Baisakhi, Guruparv, Onam, Pongal, etc. are celebrated widely across New Zealand, further deepening the cultural ties between the nations. New Zealand even issued a set of four stamps depicting the story of Diwali in 2021.
India-Australia Relations: Historical Ties and Strategic Partnerships
The roots of India and Australia’s diplomatic relations go back to the pre-Independence era when the establishment of the India Trade Office in Sydney took place in 1941. This bond got a boost post the Cold War with India’s decision to launch economic reforms in 1991, eventually leading to an upgrade in the relationship to a ‘Strategic Partnership’.
Trade Relations Between India and Australia
Trade relations between India and Australia have been growing and diversifying over the years. Australia is currently the 17th largest trading partner of India, while India ranks as Australia’s 9th largest trading partner. The total bilateral trade value for both merchandise and services stood at USD 27.5 billion in 2021.
Historic Trade Agreement: Ind- Aus ECTA
Adding a new chapter to their economic cooperation, India and Australia signed the historic India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (Ind- Aus ECTA) in 2022. This agreement is aimed at enhancing the resilience of supply chains in the Indo-Pacific Region.
The Road Ahead for India in the Indo-Pacific Region
With its robust economy, large population, and international influence, India is considered a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region. The relationships with countries in this area are a priority considering the potential economic growth and the need for political stability amidst the increasing dominance of China in the region.
