Nicosia: The visit of the Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus reaffirms India’s strategic vision for deepened engagement with Cyprus, the Mediterranean, and the European Union, and sets the stage for tangible advances in security, economic, technological, and diplomatic cooperation, Indian High Commissioner to Cyprus, Mr. Manish told CNA.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s official visit to the Republic of Cyprus on June 15-16, 2025, marks a historic milestone in the bilateral relationship, being the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over two decades. The visit underscores the shared and enduring friendship between the two nations, highlighted by a special gesture where President Christodoulides personally welcomed Prime Minister Modi at the airport.
Mr. Manish emphasized that the visit reaffirmed the deep strategic partnership between India and Cyprus, which is rooted in mutual trust and respect, and guided by shared values such as peace and effective multilateralism. In their discussions, both leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, with India reiterating its support for Cyprus’s unity and a peaceful resolution of the Cyprus Question.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his appreciation for Cyprus’s strong condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025 and its solidarity with India in the global fight against terrorism. This reflects a shared commitment to counter hybrid threats. Both countries reviewed their cooperation in trade, investment, science, and culture and identified new areas for partnership, including fintech, start-ups, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and mobility.
To guide this growing partnership, both leaders agreed to draw up a five-year roadmap focusing on strategic areas. This roadmap includes plans for real-time information-sharing to address common threats such as terrorism, arms smuggling, and drug trafficking. Furthermore, both leaders acknowledged the synergy between Cyprus’s Vision 2035 and India’s Vision 2047, which both aspire for regional and national development.
The leaders also welcomed the 2025 Bilateral Defence Cooperation Programme and the establishment of the India-Greece-Cyprus Business and Investment Council. Increased air connectivity between India and Cyprus was noted as a key driver to boost business, tourism, education, and innovation. Additionally, they highlighted the potential impact of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) on regional trade and stability.
Significant milestones were achieved during the visit, including the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NSE International Exchange and the Cyprus Stock Exchange to foster collaborative initiatives. An MoU was also signed to establish an India Studies ICCR Chair at the University of Nicosia, marking the first such chair in Cyprus.
Eurobank signed an MoU with the Indian Chamber of Commerce to strengthen the economic corridor in banking and financial services. Looking ahead, India and Cyprus will work to launch a five-year Action Plan under the supervision of their respective foreign ministries to guide the growth of bilateral relations.
Mr. Manish concluded by stating that the visit reaffirms India’s strategic vision for deepened engagement with Cyprus, the Mediterranean, and the European Union, setting the stage for advances in security, economic, technological, and diplomatic cooperation.