Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday highlighted the deep cultural and people-to-people ties between India and New Zealand during a community event in Auckland. Recalling his first visit to the country nearly three decades ago, he shared an emotional story about a gift he received from a New Zealander, which included a muffler, a cap and a pair of gloves.

PM Modi Shares Story Of Muffler Gifted By A New Zealander

Addressing the Indian community, PM Modi said he has carefully preserved the gifts he received during his first visit and continues to cherish them. He said he had even brought the same muffler with him to Auckland, describing it as a cherished reminder of the affection he received from the people. PM Modi said, “This might be my first visit as the Prime Minister but 25-30 years ago, when I was not a part of any Government and nobody knew me in public life, I received an opportunity to come to New Zealand.”

He added, “At that time, someone gifted me three things which I took back with me to India - this muffler, a cap and a pair of gloves. I have brought one of those things to this event today. The muffler you see was gifted to me by a New Zealander 25-30 years back. I used it several times in these years and I take care of it even today, just like I take care of your love for me.”

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Speaking further, he described the Maori concept of 'Waka' as a symbol of the deep and growing partnership between India and New Zealand. He said, "India-New Zealand relations have memory, friendship, values and a commitment. These relations are defined well by a beautiful tradition of New Zealand. For centuries, a word has been connecting the people here - waka. Waka is not just the name of a canoe, it is the symbol of our shared journey. Today, the 'waka' of India-New Zealand is ready to undertake a new journey. Before us, we have immense opportunities and the wind favours us."

PM Modi Highlights Indian Community's Contribution

PM Modi further praised the Indian community in New Zealand, saying its achievements have strengthened ties between the two countries. He pointed to the success of Indian-origin personalities in public life, business and sports, including Air New Zealand CEO Nikhil Ravishankar, former Governor-General Anand Satyanand, and cricketers Rachin Ravindra, Ish Sodhi and Ajaz Patel. He also noted that several places in New Zealand bear Indian names such as Bombay Hills, Calcutta Street, Delhi Crescent and Amritsar Street.

PM Modi said the future of India-New Zealand relations depends on the people-to-people connection and credited the Indian diaspora for strengthening bilateral ties. He also thanked New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, members of the government and the opposition Labour Party for their bipartisan support for India-New Zealand relations.

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