India, New Zealand sign defense cooperation pact

By Ahmad Adil

NEW DELHI (AA) – India and New Zealand on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding to further strengthen bilateral defense cooperation.

The signing of the pact came as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with visiting New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon in New Delhi.

The two sides decided to strengthen and institutionalize the defense and security partnership, Modi told reporters.

“Along with joint exercises, training, and port visits, a roadmap will be prepared for mutual cooperation in the defense industry as well,” he said.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said the two leaders agreed to further strengthen ties in areas, including trade and investment, maritime cooperation, mobility of people, and sports.

“They also exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific,” he added.