India’s Growth Story Inspires World, 40-Year Gap in PM Visit to New Zealand Won’t Repeat: Modi

Auckland, July 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday showcased India’s remarkable economic transformation while addressing the Indian diaspora at the ‘Kia Ora Modi’ community event in Auckland, highlighting the country’s emergence as a global economic powerhouse despite ongoing international uncertainties. He also assured the Indian community that the 40-year gap between visits by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand would never be repeated.

Addressing a packed gathering, PM Modi said India’s development journey has accelerated at an unprecedented pace over the last decade, placing the country among the world’s leading economies across several sectors. He noted that India has become the world’s largest milk producer, the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer and telecom market, and the third-largest automobile market, reflecting the scale and diversity of the nation’s economic progress.

The Prime Minister said that while many nations continue to grapple with economic challenges and geopolitical uncertainties, India has maintained a consistent trajectory of growth driven by innovation, manufacturing expansion, digital transformation and inclusive development. He stressed that the country’s achievements demonstrate the strength of its people and the effectiveness of reforms undertaken over the years.

Speaking about bilateral ties, PM Modi said the relationship between India and New Zealand is founded on mutual respect, shared democratic values, enduring friendship and people-to-people connections. He emphasised that India believes in learning from every nation, irrespective of its geographical size or population.

“For us, the true measure of a nation lies not in the size of its population but in its commitment to the welfare of its citizens,” the Prime Minister said, underlining India’s approach to global partnerships.

He also pointed out that both India and New Zealand share a deep commitment to preserving their indigenous cultures and traditions. According to him, the respect for native heritage and cultural diversity forms a natural bond between the two countries and strengthens their relationship.

Highlighting expanding cooperation, PM Modi noted that New Zealand’s space industry has collaborated with India on several occasions, reflecting growing partnerships in advanced technology and innovation.

Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, the Prime Minister said he had brought the greetings of 1.4 billion Indians to New Zealand. Referring to the long gap since the last visit by an Indian Prime Minister, he assured the diaspora that they would not have to wait another four decades.

“This time it took 40 years for an Indian Prime Minister to visit New Zealand. But it will not take another 40 years. That’s Modi’s guarantee,” he said to loud applause.