New Zealand delegation meets CM

SHIMLA 1 October, 2026

A delegation led by New Zealand High Commissioner Patrick Rata met Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here today.

The Chief Minister said that apple production has an important role in Himachal Pradesh’s economy. The state government is promoting new technology and innovation to strengthen the horticulture sector. He stressed the need to organize exposure visits for farmers and orchardists from Himachal Pradesh and New Zealand to encourage apple cultivation in the state.

The Chief Minister also held detailed discussions with the delegation on various aspects of natural farming in Himachal Pradesh.

The delegation informed the Chief Minister that New Zealand is keen to provide technical expertise to promote apple horticulture in Himachal Pradesh. They also gave a detailed presentation on the proposed Apple Horticulture Centre of Excellence to be established in the state.

Mayor Municipal Corporation Shimla Surinder Chauhan, Chief Secretary K.K. Pant, New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy Nathan Guy, Counsellor (Primary Industries) at the High Commission James Wa, Agriculture Partnership Manager High Commission Priyam Arora and Danielle and Lachlan from industry- New Zealand Apples and Pears were also present on the occasion.