Congress Remembers Historic Ties Between India and New Zealand During PM Modi's Visit

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits New Zealand, the Congress party recalls the historical ties between the two nations. They highlight the contributions of former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, particularly focusing on David Lange's role in strengthening bilateral relations. Jairam Ramesh shares insights on past collaborations, including New Zealand's support in India's dairy sector and the establishment of AIIMS. The article also discusses the revival of ties during Lange's tenure and his appointment of Sir Edmund Hillary as High Commissioner to India. This reflection sheds light on the enduring friendship between India and New Zealand.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 11:10 IST

Congress Reflects on India-New Zealand Relations

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on his journey to New Zealand, the Congress party took a moment on Saturday to reminisce about the longstanding ties between the two nations. They highlighted the significant contributions made by former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, particularly noting the pivotal role played by New Zealand's then-Prime Minister David Lange in enhancing India-New Zealand relations.

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh shared these reflections through a post on the social media platform X. He emphasized that Modi's visit serves as a reminder of a remarkable individual who played a crucial role in fostering positive changes in the bilateral relationship.

Ramesh noted that David Lange served as New Zealand's Prime Minister from 1984 to 1989, and his first foreign trip after taking office in October 1984 was to India. During this visit, Lange established a strong rapport with then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and later developed a close personal relationship with Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, which revitalized the bilateral ties.

The Congress leader also recalled past collaborations, mentioning that in the 1950s, New Zealand significantly contributed to the development of India's dairy sector and the establishment of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. Additionally, Dr. Verghese Kurien, a key figure in India's 'White Revolution,' was awarded a scholarship to study in New Zealand in 1952-53, which profoundly influenced his life and work.

According to Ramesh, the relationship between the two countries experienced a stagnation during the 1960s and 1970s, but it regained momentum with Lange's leadership. He appointed the renowned mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary as New Zealand's High Commissioner to India. Ramesh also mentioned that streets in New Delhi's Diplomatic Enclave are named after Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.