Auckland, July 11: Thousands gathered to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi at an event organized for the Indian community in New Zealand. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with cultural performances, patriotic slogans, and traditional attire.
Members of the Indian community, dressed in traditional outfits from various Indian states, expressed their excitement about the Prime Minister’s visit. They mentioned that they had been eagerly anticipating this occasion for a long time.
One community member stated, “Everyone is eagerly waiting for the Prime Minister.”
Another attendee added, “We are very excited about PM Modi’s arrival. It brings us immense joy to welcome him here.”
The crowd chanted slogans like “Modi, Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” Indian flags and the New Zealand national flag waved together, symbolizing the friendly relations between the two nations.
Preparations for various cultural performances continued before the Prime Minister took the stage, further enhancing the event’s excitement.
Earlier, upon arriving in Auckland on Friday, the Indian community warmly welcomed Prime Minister Modi. He expressed his gratitude for the heartfelt reception, stating that it reflects the strong and enduring connection between India and the Indian diaspora.
Following this, a formal welcome took place at the Government House in Auckland, featuring a traditional pōwhiri ceremony, which represents the rich cultural heritage and traditions of New Zealand’s indigenous Māori people.
This marks the first official visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades. The visit is expected to focus on enhancing trade, investment, education, defense, and people-to-people connections between the two countries.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared on social media platform X, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome at Auckland’s Government House, honored in a traditional manner showcasing New Zealand’s rich indigenous heritage and cultural values.”
PM Modi arrived in Auckland on Friday evening as part of the final leg of his three-nation tour, where he was greeted at the airport by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
After arriving in New Zealand, PM Modi met with members of the Indian community. The event featured cultural performances from Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, along with a fusion of Hindustani classical music and a rendition of “Vande Mataram,” showcasing the cultural diversity of the Indian community and its deep connection to India.
Leave a Comment