The recent visit of Sampat Saraswat Bamanwali, Founder and CEO of Eco Bharat, to New Zealand marked a unique blend of cultural celebration, civilizational exchange, and business diplomacy. From November 3 to 9, 2025, Bamanwali led the Indian delegation during the fourth round of India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, working closely with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to strengthen bilateral trade, economic collaboration, and community engagement.
A highlight of the tour came on November 7, when Bamanwali led several hundred Indian diaspora members and well-wishers in singing “Vande Mataram” from the iconic Sky Tower in Auckland, commemorating 150 years of India’s national song. “It was an extraordinary moment to see the Indian community in New Zealand come together and celebrate our heritage,” Bamanwali said. “Vande Mataram represents the spirit of India’s civilization and sharing it with our diaspora strengthens bonds that transcend geography.” The event, part of nationwide celebrations spearheaded by Commerce Minister Goyal, was widely appreciated for fostering patriotism and reinforcing cultural pride.
Beyond cultural festivities, Bamanwali played a pivotal role in the FTA discussions, aiming to expand trade relations between India and New Zealand. He engaged actively with representatives of India’s leading industry chambers, including FICCI, CII, ASSOCHAM, and Invest India, exploring avenues for investment, trade expansion, and technological collaboration. During interactions with New Zealand trade officials, Bamanwali emphasized the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation in sectors ranging from agriculture and technology to manufacturing and services. “Our goal is to ensure that the FTA is not just an agreement on paper, but a framework that enables businesses and communities in both countries to thrive,” he noted.
The tour brought together a distinguished array of dignitaries and officials, including Council General Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, High Commissioner Neeta Bhushan, New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay, former MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, and Edwin Paul, Chairman of the India-New Zealand Business Council, along with prominent business leaders, government officials, and members of the Indian community. Commerce Minister Goyal highlighted the importance of such visits, saying, “Engagements like these allow India to showcase not only its economic potential but also its rich culture and civilizational values. Leaders like Sampat Saraswat Bamanwali play a vital role in connecting people and possibilities.”
Bamanwali’s efforts extended beyond trade and diplomacy. He delivered lectures on road safety in local schools, participated in cultural programs promoting Indian heritage, and held discussions with Indian businesspeople in Auckland to explore ways to enhance bilateral trade and provide economic support to local traders. These initiatives reinforced his longstanding commitment to social causes, education, and community development, demonstrating that the tour was as much about people and culture as it was about commerce.
A recognized leader in social and cultural spheres, Bamanwali serves as Rajasthan Head of Vishva Hindi Parishad, coordinated the Jammu Kashmir Tiranga Yatra 2023, and was awarded the Vagdhara Samman 2023 for his contributions to society, road safety, and Hindi literature. His leadership during the New Zealand tour exemplified a combination of professional acumen, cultural stewardship, and humanitarian commitment.
The impact of the tour has been widely acknowledged. It strengthened cultural ties between India and New Zealand, fostered closer community relations, and advanced economic dialogue expected to boost trade, agriculture, and technological collaboration. Discussions with business leaders outlined a roadmap for sustained cooperation, earning appreciation from both the Indian diaspora and trade circles.
Concluding the tour, Baranwal remarked, “Visits like these remind us that culture and commerce are intertwined. Celebrating our heritage while forging economic partnerships ensures that India’s legacy continues to inspire, connect, and empower.”
Once again, New Zealand witnessed how a blend of culture, civilization, and business vision can create lasting bridges, leaving a strong imprint on both the Indian diaspora and the broader bilateral relationship between the two nations. -TIN Bureau