New Zealand Appoints First Defence Adviser in India to Enhance Ties

New Zealand is set to bolster its defence relations with India as Commodore Andy Dowling prepares to become the nation’s first resident Defence Adviser in New Delhi. Dowling, who currently serves as New Zealand’s Defence Adviser to Australia, will relocate to India later this month with his wife, Claire. This three-year appointment marks a significant shift, as it will be the first time the role is held full-time from India, rather than being cross-accredited from another nation.

The establishment of a Defence Adviser in India is aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and identifying opportunities for collaboration between the two countries. “By having a Defence Adviser in India, it will allow us to understand their system better to identify and explore opportunities for our two nations to work together,” Dowling stated. He noted that the New Zealand Defence Force had an active year in 2023, engaging with India through various initiatives, including the visit of the frigate HMNZS Te Kaha and participation in Command Task Force 150.

Strengthening Defence Cooperation

Commodore Dowling emphasized the importance of sustaining interactions with India in a way that goes beyond sporadic visits. “We’re not going to turn up with a frigate every week. But I’ll soon be in a place to have the dialogue and spot opportunities,” he explained. The relationship focuses significantly on defence and security, which are critical considerations for India given the complex geopolitical environment it navigates.

His appointment follows increased diplomatic engagement between the two nations, notably marked by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon‘s visit to India in March 2024. This visit culminated in the signing of the India-New Zealand Memorandum of Understanding for Defence Cooperation, which aims to enhance bilateral defence ties and establish regular defence engagement.

In 2023, New Zealand played a pivotal role in the international effort to combat drug trafficking in the Western Indian Ocean, leading the Command Task Force 150, with India serving as second-in-command. Together, they successfully seized over seven tonnes of narcotics between April and June.

A New Chapter in Defence Relations

Commodore Dowling, who has visited India four times in the past year, acknowledged India’s evolving international defence role. He highlighted the progression from the 1991 ‘Look East’ policy to the 2014 ‘Act East’ strategy, which reflects India’s increasing engagement in global defence matters.

He expressed admiration for India’s respect towards New Zealand, describing it as “the ‘honest broker’ in the world.” Dowling also pointed to shared interests in naval operations, training, and equipment, suggesting these similarities could foster deeper collaboration.

Reflecting on this unique opportunity, Dowling shared, “I was asked midway through last year, is this something Claire and I would like to do? We saw it as a great opportunity and adventure. It’s not often you get to set up something from scratch. It’s a real privilege we’re eager to grasp with both hands.”

As New Zealand positions itself strategically within the South Asian region, this appointment heralds a new chapter in its defence relationship with India, aiming for increased cooperation and sustained engagement in the years to come.