Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro warmly welcomed President Droupadi Murmu to New Zealand with a traditional Maori “Powhiri” ceremony in Wellington, followed by a Royal Guard of Honour. The Ministry of External Affairs, through its spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, shared this moment on social media, highlighting the strengthening ties between India and New Zealand.
President Murmu’s visit to New Zealand, part of her three-nation tour, is set to enhance bilateral relations. In Auckland, she was welcomed by New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay and Neeta Bhushan, India’s incoming High Commissioner to New Zealand. McClay emphasized that President Murmu’s visit is one of several recent government engagements aimed at deepening the relationship between the two countries, fostering stronger cultural and people-to-people connections.
During her state visit, President Murmu will meet with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, speak at an education conference, and interact with the Indian community. Before arriving in New Zealand, President Murmu visited Fiji, where she offered prayers at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple and was honored with Fiji’s highest civilian award, the Companion of the Order of Fiji. She described the award as a symbol of the deep friendship between India and Fiji.
President Murmu’s tour, which includes stops in Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste, began with her departure from New Delhi on a six-day visit. Her visit to Timor-Leste, at the invitation of President Jose Ramos-Horta, marks the final leg of her trip, with engagements scheduled for August 10.
