‘India will soon open consulate in Auckland’: President Droupadi Murmu announces in New Zealand

“Your impact in every sphere of life in New Zealand is quite visible,” she said to the gathering, mentioning the contribution of those working in various sectors — business, health education and IT.

“With their hard work and sacrifice, the diaspora has contributed to the development and economy of the country,” she said and also cited the example of Anand Satyanand, a former lawyer and judge with Indian roots who served as the 19th Governor-General of New Zealand from 2006 to 2011.

“Today, India is the symbol of democracy in the world. Soon, we will become the world’s third-largest economy. Digital India, Make in India and Skill India initiatives are empowering our citizens,” she said.

“As we progress towards achieving our goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, we want to further strengthen our ties with our diaspora. We see the diaspora around the world as an important player in making India a country of our dreams,” she said.

According to the 2018 census, there are 2,50,000 members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand. Indian-origin people constitute six per cent of New Zealand’s population, Murmu said.

Murmu also mentioned the role played by the government and people of New Zealand for their inclusive and welcoming spirit, enabling the Indian community to thrive and prosper.

The President has departed for Timor-Leste as a part of the final leg of her three-nation state visit.