TFP Bureau, New Delhi, June 16, 2025: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today held official talks with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, H.E. Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, reaffirming the strong friendship and strategic partnership between India and Cyprus.
Upon arrival at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome by President Christodoulides. The warm reception, including a special gesture by the Cypriot President at the airport yesterday, reflected the deep mutual trust and enduring ties shared by the two nations.
During their discussions, the leaders emphasized their commitment to respecting each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for Cyprus’s firm condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam earlier this year and lauded the solidarity shown by Cyprus in India’s fight against terrorism.
Both leaders reviewed ongoing cooperation across trade, investment, science, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people links. They explored new areas for collaboration such as fintech, startups, defence industry, digital innovation, artificial intelligence, and connectivity. A five-year roadmap was agreed upon to deepen strategic cooperation, including launching cyber and maritime security dialogues and establishing real-time information sharing on terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling.
The bilateral defence cooperation programme signed earlier this year was welcomed as a foundation for stronger defence ties. The establishment of the India-Greece-Cyprus Business and Investment Council was also hailed as a key step to enhance economic engagement. Discussions included plans to boost air connectivity to facilitate business, tourism, and innovation.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a catalyst for peace and prosperity in the region. The leaders reiterated their support for multilateralism and reforms in global governance, including backing India’s bid for permanent membership of a reformed United Nations Security Council.
They also exchanged views on pressing global issues, including conflicts in West Asia and Europe. Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to President Christodoulides to visit India, further cementing bilateral relations.
During the visit, an MoU was signed to establish an India Studies Chair at the University of Nicosia under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), marking a significant milestone in cultural cooperation. A Joint Declaration on the India-Cyprus Partnership was also issued, outlining their shared vision for future collaboration.
