Jaishankar raises students' visa issue in New Zealand, calls for fair and sympathetic resolution

Jaishankar said he has asked the NZ government to consider the issue of Indian students who have not been able to return after the Covid pandemic.

Deepak Nagpal

Updated Oct 6, 2022, 14:44 IST

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar with New Zealand counterpart Nanaia Mahuta

Photo : ANI

Auckland (New Zealand): External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, who is on a visit to New Zealand, met his counterpart Nanaia Mahuta on Thursday and held wide-ranging talks. Speaking at a joint presser later, Jaishankar said he had raised the students visa issue with his New Zealand counterpart.

Jaishankar said he has asked the NZ government to consider the issue of Indian students who have not been able to return after the Covid pandemic.

“I asked for the minister's consideration for students who had to go back during the Covid period. I urged the situation be treated sympathetically and with fairness,” Jaishankar told the presser.

Jaishankar also talked about the free trade agreement with New Zealand and said business collaborations were the need of the hour.

“Perhaps, the best way of pursuing economic opportunities right now is to encourage more business collaborations,” he said.

Speaking at the joint briefing, Foreign Minister Mahuta said New Zealand considers India an important partner.

“India is one of the most important partners we have,” she stated.

Earlier, during the bilateral talks with Mahuta, Jaishankar asked for expeditious visa processing of Indian students who wish to study in New Zealand.

"Warm and productive talks with New Zealand Foreign Minister @NanaiaMahuta this afternoon. Two societies, respectful of tradition and culture are seeking to forge a more contemporary relationship," the EAM tweeted.

"Took up the issue of Indian students impacted by Covid measures. Urged expeditious visa processing of those desirous of studying in New Zealand now," he added.

Jaishankar noted during his talks that said if India and New Zealand play to their strengths, including business, education, and agriculture, both can cooperate on important international matters including climate action, pandemics and maritime security.

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