India and Cyprus agree to deepen cooperation in key sectors

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides held wide-ranging discussions in Nicosia today, reaffirming the enduring partnership between India and Cyprus—a relationship rooted in shared democratic values, the rule of law, and mutual respect. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over two decades, reflecting renewed momentum in bilateral ties.

Addressing the media at the Presidential Palace following delegation-level talks, Prime Minister Modi described the friendship between the two nations as one that has stood the test of time, not defined by circumstances or geography. He highlighted the alignment between Cyprus’s Vision 2035 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047—both long-term national development plans—and announced that a five-year roadmap will be drafted to advance cooperation across strategic areas.

A key outcome of the talks was the decision to finalise a Mobility Agreement soon, which would facilitate legal migration and professional exchanges between the two countries. PM Modi also extended best wishes to Cyprus for its upcoming Presidency of the European Union, while appreciating Cyprus’s consistent support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Strong solidarity was expressed on the issue of terrorism, particularly in light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack in India. Cyprus conveyed its unwavering support to India in combating Pahalgam terror attack, and both leaders unequivocally condemned the attack, calling for zero tolerance against terrorism and the need to hold perpetrators accountable. Prime Minister Modi announced plans to establish a real-time information exchange mechanism between the two countries' security agencies to combat terrorism, arms smuggling, and drug trafficking.

On broader global issues, the two leaders acknowledged the far-reaching consequences of ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Europe, including the war in Ukraine. Prime Minister Modi reiterated his belief that “this is not an era of war”, advocating for dialogue, peaceful resolution, and regional stability. Both sides underscored the strategic importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a planned trade and connectivity route aimed at enhancing economic integration and geopolitical stability across regions.

The leaders also discussed the urgent need for reforms in the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, to make it more representative of current global realities. Cyprus reiterated its support for India’s inclusion as a permanent member in an expanded UNSC and agreed to closely cooperate at the United Nations on multilateral issues.

The bilateral talks further covered an expansive range of sectors, including defence, security, renewable energy, healthcare, technology, and climate justice. Both sides explored enhanced cultural linkages, with PM Modi noting the increasing popularity of Yoga and Ayurveda in Cyprus—highlighting their role in soft diplomacy. They also touched upon the need to uphold the global non-proliferation architecture and discussed the strategic value of India joining the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)—a multilateral body that controls nuclear-related exports to prevent proliferation.

Earlier in the day, in a ceremonial gesture underscoring the strength of bilateral ties, President Christodoulides conferred upon Prime Minister Modi the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian honour of the Republic of Cyprus. Expressing gratitude, PM Modi dedicated the honour to the 1.4 billion people of India, calling it a proud and symbolic moment in this historic visit.

In a cultural and historical gesture, the two leaders also visited the historic centre of Nicosia, where they toured the United Nations ceasefire line—a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s long-standing division. President Christodoulides briefed PM Modi on the mountainous northern region of Cyprus, which has been under Turkish occupation since 1974, adding a geopolitical layer to their discussions.

Our correspondent reports that the visit, rich in diplomatic, strategic, and cultural engagement, marks a milestone in India-Cyprus relations, setting the stage for deeper cooperation across multiple domains in the years ahead.