Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached New Zealand on the last leg of his three-nation tour. This is the first visit of an Indian PM to New Zealand after almost 40 years. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon himself warmly welcomed PM Modi on his arrival in Auckland. A glimpse of Mini India was seen in Auckland. There is tremendous enthusiasm in the Indian community regarding the arrival of PM Modi.
On Saturday, a special event named ‘Kia Ora Modi’ was organized at ‘Spark Arena’ in Auckland. Where he addressed the Indians. During this, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Luxon was also present. These Indians loudly raised slogans of Modi-Modi.
PM gave best wishes
During this, as soon as PM Modi reached the stage, he said Namaste. After this he uttered the words ‘Kiya Ora’, on hearing which the entire program echoed with thunderous applause. During this, the PM extended best wishes to everyone from India. He said that after 40 years an Indian Prime Minister has come to New Zealand, which is a historic occasion in itself. He said that this is his great fortune. He said that I have brought for you the best wishes of 140 crore Indians.
Mention of relations between India and New Zealand
On this occasion, PM Modi described a new chapter in the relations between India and New Zealand and also praised the growing friendship between the two countries and the role of the Indian community. He expressed confidence in taking the relations between India and New Zealand to new heights. The PM said that he has full confidence in the success of this partnership. He said that this is possible not because of Modi, but because of all of you. You are the true guide on this journey. He said that the Indian community living in New Zealand is the most important link in strengthening the relations between the two countries.
Share your old memories related to New Zealand
During his address, PM Modi shared his old memories related to New Zealand. He told that this is his first visit as Prime Minister, but about 25-30 years ago, when he was neither a part of any government nor was known to people in public life, he got the opportunity to come to New Zealand for the first time.
Special muffler mentioned
He told that during that trip a New Zealander had gifted him a muffler, a cap and a pair of gloves. He said that today he has come to the program wearing a muffler that was one of those gifts. The PM told that he used this muffler for years and even today he keeps it with the same affection, just as he cherishes the love and affection of the people of New Zealand.
Emphasizing the strong diplomatic and cultural relations between India and New Zealand, PM Modi said that the foundation of this relationship is very deep. He said that there are memories, friendship, values and a commitment in the relationship between India and New Zealand.
PM Modi further said that relations between India and New Zealand are based on friendship, shared values and mutual commitment. He said that a beautiful word from New Zealand culture captures the essence of this relationship – ‘Waka’. He said that these relationships can be better understood through ‘Waka’, a beautiful tradition of New Zealand. He said that for centuries this word has been a symbol of bringing people together. He said that ‘Waka’ is not just a boat. It symbolizes a shared journey. He said that today India and New Zealand ‘WACA’ are ready to set out together on a new journey.
Praise from the Prime Minister of New Zealand
Along with this, PM Modi in his address praised New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. He said that he is a ‘superhit’ among the Indian community and in a way has become the heartbeat of the people. The PM said that on the occasion of India’s Independence Day, the dance performed by Christopher Luxon and opposition leader Chris Hipkins on the song ‘Mast Qalandar’ had gone viral on social media. He said that through this presentation, Luxon has made a special place in the hearts of Indians.
PM Modi further said that New Zealand is a country where people of Indian origin get a chance to achieve the highest position on the basis of their talent. He said that Nikhil Ravi Shankar became the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Air New Zealand, Anand Satyanand reached the post of Governor-General, while players like Rachin Ravindra, Ish Sodhi and Ajaz Patel made their mark in the New Zealand cricket team.
‘You are praised and my head is held high’
He said that the depth of relations between the two countries can also be gauged from the fact that many roads and places in New Zealand are named after Indian cities and places. Mentioning names like Khandala, Bombay Hills, Coromandel, Calcutta Street, Delhi Crescent and Amritsar Street, he said that these are symbols of the historical and cultural connection between the two countries. PM said that there are so many such names, where while living, you too have become a complete Kiwi. He said that whenever I have met the leaders of New Zealand, I praise you all. He said that praise is yours and my head is held high.
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