Why in News?
The 2nd India–New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue was held in Wellington on 24 August 2026. The discussions focused on strengthening defence cooperation, maritime security and military-to-military engagement between the two countries.
Key Highlights
- The dialogue was co-chaired by Joint Secretary, Ministry of Defence Amitabh Prasad and Richard Schmidt, Deputy Secretary, New Zealand Ministry of Defence.
- The meeting followed the recent elevation of India–New Zealand ties to a Strategic Partnership and focused on implementing the goals outlined in the India–New Zealand Strategic Partnership Roadmap 2030.
- Both sides discussed ways to expand military cooperation through joint training exercises, personnel exchanges and partnerships between defence staff colleges. Cooperation across the maritime, air and land domains was also reviewed.
- India and New Zealand reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific and discussed ways to enhance coordination in the area of maritime security.
- The Indian delegation also held meetings with senior officials of the New Zealand Defence Force and Ministry of Defence, including the Vice Chief of Defence Force, Commander Joint Forces New Zealand and Deputy Secretary Capability Delivery. These discussions covered operational coordination, defence procurement and future joint engagements.
- The two countries agreed to maintain the momentum through regular high-level and ministerial-level exchanges. The dialogue is expected to further strengthen defence and security cooperation as an important pillar of the India–New Zealand Strategic Partnership.