New Delhi: New Zealand is objectively pursuing a free trade agreement (FTA) with India, for which the conversation was started earlier this year, stating Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Winston Peters. Peters in a bilateral meeting discussed the issues of their counterparts Jaishankar related to trade, economy, defense and security, while the Pahalgam disrespected the terrorist attack and expressed solidarity with the people of India.He also confirmed his shared commitment for an independent, open, safe and prosperous Indo-Pacific.Later speaking at the infinite center, Peters stated that the FTA talks were now continuing with a real meaning and described it as success in economic relations with India. However, there are differences over tariffs on dairy products and the minister said that he knew about the concerns of the dairy industry in India.“Despite India’s economic scale, it remains our 12th largest partner in business, accounting for only 1.5% of our exports. We are determining that we are going to work to replace it. Our strength, food and beverage products to agriculture, forestry, horticulture, education and tourism, are a welcome as a welcome. Peters said, “We are not meant to enrich ourselves, we are in it to enrich both people”.Peters said that increasing defense security with India remained the top priority in India-Pacific.
