Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters told Ryan Bridge TODAY that words matter and deals need to be clear.
“Here we are in 2026 we’ve got computerisation and this misunderstanding, or could I say worse than that, possibly a cover-up of what’s actually being agreed to.
“Surely New Zealand people need to be provided an explanation. It’s highly unsatisfactory and most regrettable circumstance in dealing with emerging power in the world in terms of economy. It should be handled far more professionally.”
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed at Epsom’s Government House by the Prime Minister and other officials, ahead of bilateral meetings and community events. Photo / Dean Purcell
Trade Minister Todd McClay doubled down and said the document, signed by both nations, was of “very high quality”.
He said exporters should always “judge risks for themselves”, after comments from Labour leader Chris Hipkins over the weekend warning exporters to keep a close eye on any future deals to India.
McClay said the opportunity for investment of New Zealand businesses was huge and the Government had spent a lot of time combing through the deal to iron out any issues.
Luxon over the weekend said both sides knew what they were signing.
Alongside the FTA, a new Strategic Partnership 2030 was announced.
It would deepen both countries’ links in trade, investment, education, technology, sport and tourism while also allowing closer co-operation on defence, maritime security and law enforcement, Luxon said.
“Together we can support job creation, expand trade, attract innovation and create new opportunities in India and New Zealand.”
Luxon said the partnership had a significant focus on maritime security, including a maritime co-operation arrangement between the New Zealand and Indian defence forces.
“New Zealand’s prosperity and security depend on a stable and secure Indo-Pacific,” Luxon said.
Luxon thanked Modi for his “truly historic visit” to New Zealand, which took place at a time when “we are living in a very complex world”.
“Thank you for the relationship and what you’ve put into it … today’s focus is about more than just the FTA [Free Trade Agreement].
He said the weekend’s bilateral meeting presented a chance for the two countries to share an aligned, “rejuvenated” relationship after “being on ice”.
It was the first time an Indian PM had visited New Zealand in 40 years.