Key’s India trip started off going nowhere fast, and ended up the same way – New Zealand’s as close as it’s ever got to a free trade deal with India – John Key. Translation, no trade deal.
Today the same loyal scribe (Jo Moir) doubled down with this effort – John Key’s time in India was ‘short and sweet’ but will be chalked up as a success
While a free trade agreement hasn’t been signed and sealed in New Delhi this week, Key has got New Zealand closer to it happening than ever before.
Meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi was an important step in the process as face-to-face relations are paramount in India when it comes to striking an agreement.
While Modi, a serial hugger, didn’t embrace Key he did seem to genuinely enjoy his company and is keen to visit New Zealand and see it for himself – a sign of mutual respect.
As for the delegation of 35 business leaders who travelled to New Delhi with Key the experience was priceless.
Not only did the trip allow an opportunity to discuss business opportunities in a country with an exploding population but time spent with other influential Kiwis was just as valuable.
One industry leader spoken to said it was almost impossible at home to meet so many powerful people all at once, so it was no wonder they all jumped at the opportunity to spend hours together on a plane.
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