Why did New Zealand’s Foreign Minister say that this agreement with India is dishonest? Know the whole truth

News India Live, Digital Desk: We often hear that India is making ‘Free Trade Agreement’ (FTA) with different countries of the world to increase trade. These agreements are made for friendship and profit. But now a new and sharp turn has come in the ongoing talks with New Zealand. New Zealand’s Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, who is known for his outspoken and tough comments, has clearly stated that this proposed agreement with India is “neither free nor fair”. Now you must be wondering why things got so bad between two friends? Let us understand in simple language. Where is the problem? The answer is- ‘Milk’. ‘Milk’ is at the root of this entire controversy. We all know that New Zealand is famous all over the world for its milk, butter and cheese (Dairy Products). Their entire economy is largely dependent on this. Winston Peters says that if an agreement is being made and New Zealand is not given free rein to sell its goods in India’s huge dairy market, then what benefit does New Zealand get from it? He said that this agreement is not “free” because India is still imposing taxes and restrictions, and is not “fair” because New Zealand is not getting a level playing field in it. India’s own helplessness (and strength too) Now look at India’s side as well. India is the world’s largest milk producer, but the milk business here is run by Amul, Mother Dairy and crores of small farmers. The Indian government knows that if New Zealand’s machine-made cheap milk and powder comes to India without tax, then the livelihood of our village farmers will be destroyed. This is why India has made it clear that it cannot put its dairy sector in danger, whether the FTA for it stops or continues. It is this strength of India that is pricking Winston Peters. Diplomacy or domestic politics? The interesting thing is that Winston Peters is a part of his own government (coalition government). Experts believe that his statement is not just for India but to please the voters of his country (especially the farmers there). They want to show that they will not compromise with the interests of New Zealand, even if there is a powerful country like India in front of them. What will happen next? At present, it seems that there is a tussle between the two countries. India wants easy entry into New Zealand for its service sector (IT and professionals), while New Zealand wants to sell its milk and apples. After this harsh statement by Winston Peters, the atmosphere at the negotiating table will definitely be a little heated. It will be interesting to see whether India succeeds in convincing New Zealand while saving its farmers, or this deal will be shelved.