Ocean full of opportunities: PM Modi's 'waka' message in New Zealand
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday drew on the Maori concept of 'waka' to underscore the deepening relationship between India and New Zealand as the
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday drew on the Maori concept of 'waka' to underscore the deepening relationship between India and New Zealand as the countries elevated their diplomatic ties. The Prime Minister also said there was an "open ocean full of opportunities" for the two nations as India seeks to bolster its ties in the hotly contested Asia-Pacific region.
Addressing the Indian community in Auckland, PM Modi said the term 'waka' perfectly captured the spirit of the India-New Zealand relationship. More than 12,000 Indians thronged Auckland's Spark Arena, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Read Full Story "For centuries, one word has brought people together here... waka. A waka is not merely the name of a canoe; it is a symbol of our shared journey," Modi, who became the first prime minister to visit New Zealand in 40 years, said.
"Today, this 'waka' of India and New Zealand is ready to embark on a new voyage. Before us lies an open ocean full of opportunities," he further said. The Maoris are the indigenous people of New Zealand. Waka means a canoe or vessel. However, in Maori culture, the meaning of waka goes far beyond that of a boat.
It symbolises a shared journey, unity and cooperation. Thus, by invoking the Maori concept of waka, PM Modi wanted to suggest that India and New Zealand were entering a new phase of cooperation. Ends
The BriefWire