India and New Zealand Bolster Ties with Taj Mahal Tour and FTA Signing

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand's Minister for Trade and Investment Todd McClay spent a morning touring the iconic Taj Mahal with their families, thanking the local administration for their hospitality. Their visit symbolizes deepening ties between the two nations on the eve of a significant economic agreement.

The ministers' visit comes just one day before India and New Zealand are set to officially sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a new era in bilateral economic relations. Minister Goyal emphasized the importance of the FTA, describing it as a critical milestone in strengthening the partnership between the two countries.

The FTA negotiations began in March 2025 and concluded by December 2025, setting a record for rapid conclusion. The agreement promises unprecedented duty-free access for Indian exports to New Zealand, addressing sensitive sectors and promoting resilience and inclusive growth. Officials hail this as a defining moment in reinforcing economic cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies.)