Service to the community and the society inspires the lawmaker from New Zealand who says his ambition is to see the relationship between his ‘Home Country’ and ‘Motherland’ reaching greater heights of cooperation and interaction.
‘I am privileged to visit India as a part of the official delegation of our Prime Minister John Key and as Member of the New Zealand Parliament. I feel even more honoured to be the first person born in India to be lawmaker,” he said, speaking to Indian Newslink at the ITC Maurya Hotel, located in the Capital’s Diplomatic Enclave.
The National Party, which he represents, considers him an important link in Indo-Kiwi relationship.
He said New Zealand had a number of commonalities that strengthened relationship.
“Apart from being agricultural countries, New Zealand and India share the common heritage of the Commonwealth of Nations, Democracy and Cricket.
“I am happy that bilateral relations between the two countries are poised to reach a higher level with the brightening prospect of a Free Trade Agreement. In addition, there is immense potential for cooperation in the education, investment, banking and finance, trade, tourism and other sectors,” he said.
Mr Bakshi is a List Member of the ruling National Party and represents the interests of the people of the Manukau East constituency and the Indian community in general.
“Although a first-generation migrant, New Zealanders have not only welcomed me but also accorded me the privilege and opportunity of serving them as a Member of Parliament. This is an indication of multiculturalism at work,” he said.
Born and raised in a business family, Mr Bakshi took active interest in Indian politics before migrating to New Zealand nine years ago. He joined the National Party since, according to him, it represented policies and programmes for the larger good of New Zealanders.
“Public service always inspires me to be involved in politics,” he said.
“Our Prime Minister is keen to promote ties with India in every sector possible. There is immense potential to promote New Zealand as the best destination for students from India. We have some of the finest universities and tertiary institutions,” he said.
