Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says he is excited to welcome Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to New Zealand, describing the visit as an important opportunity to strengthen ties between the two countries.

Speaking to Radio Tarana host Sanjesh Narain, Luxon said the visit will help enhance trade and defence cooperation, while also celebrating New Zealand’s vibrant Kiwi-Indian community.

Addressing concerns about trade, the Prime Minister said that increasing support for Indian farmers would not disadvantage New Zealand exporters. Exporters have also expressed optimism about Prime Minister Modi’s visit and the potential for stronger trade relations.

When asked whether increased New Zealand exports to India could lead to higher prices for some products for Kiwi consumers, Luxon said he does not expect that to happen, explaining that prices will continue to be determined by supply and demand.

On comments by Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters regarding a New Zealand–India free trade agreement, Luxon said he does not believe India is taking note of Peters’ remarks.

Prime minister Luxon also reiterated that he does not support Winston Peters’ proposal to restrict voting rights to New Zealand citizens only.

Vision NZ Party leader Hannah Tamaki says she respects all faiths but believes that people who come to New Zealand should also respect the country’s way of life and its values.Tamaki also said she is concerned that some groups attempt to influence the government to advance their own agendas.No stranger to politics, Tamaki is contesting an election for the third time. This election, she is standing in the Papakura electorate.Speaking to Radio Tarana host Sanjesh Narain, Tamaki said she intends to engage with people from all communities during her campaign and is confident of achieving a positive result.Commenting on the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, Tamaki said she believes it was rushed through. She also said New Zealand’s immigration laws should be tightened.

National Farmers Union President Surendra Lal says only a small number of cane farmers in Labasa, including Minister Charan Jeath Singh, have begun harvesting, while most are holding off in the hope of a better offer from the Government.

Speaking to Radio Tarana host Sanjesh Narain, Lal said about 95 percent of cane farmers are refusing to send their cane to the sugar mills until their concerns are addressed.

He claimed the Government and the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) management continue to ignore the union and have failed to respond to its correspondence, leaving farmers frustrated over the lack of engagement.