India will soon establish a consulate in Auckland to enhance diplomatic relations with New Zealand and better serve the Indian diaspora, President Droupadi Murmu announced on Friday.
Speaking at the Indian Community Reception in Auckland, President Murmu expressed her pleasure at witnessing the achievements of the Indian community in New Zealand during her first visit to the country.
"India's ties with New Zealand are deep and multidimensional," Murmu stated. She highlighted the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora to New Zealand's development, saying, "I am happy to announce that India will soon open a consulate in Auckland to fulfil the long-standing demand of the community," eliciting applause from the audience.
The new consulate will complement the work of the Honorary Consul of India currently in Auckland and the Indian High Commission based in Wellington.
President Murmu praised the Indian-origin population in New Zealand, which constitutes 6% of the country's population. She acknowledged their visible impact across various sectors, including business, health, education, and IT.
The President also highlighted the achievements of the diaspora, citing Anand Satyanand, a former lawyer and judge who served as the 19th Governor-General of New Zealand from 2006 to 2011, as an example of their success.
During her visit, President Murmu engaged in productive discussions with Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, and Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters to further strengthen bilateral ties, noting the important role of the Indian diaspora in these efforts.
President Murmu emphasised India's growing global significance, stating, "Today, India is the symbol of democracy in the world. Soon, we will become the world's third-largest economy. Digital India, Make in India, and Skill India initiatives are empowering our citizens."
She reiterated India's commitment to becoming a developed nation by 2047 and expressed the desire to strengthen connections with the diaspora, recognising their skills, expertise, and experience as valuable assets.
The 2018 census recorded 250,000 members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand. In her address at a banquet hosted by Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro on Thursday, President Murmu reflected on the warm relationship between India and New Zealand, grounded in shared democratic values and the rule of law.
She noted the collaborative efforts of both nations in addressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and international peace and security. "Our shared commitment to a rules-based international order and a multipolar world underscores our collective efforts to promote stability and prosperity," she said.
President Murmu praised the integration of Indians into New Zealand society and their contributions to the country's cultural and economic fabric. She was pleased to note that all major Indian festivals are celebrated in New Zealand, describing the diaspora as a "strong living bridge" between the two nations.
Follow us
