PM Modi’s Cyprus visit heralds new chapter in India–EU partnership
New Delhi, Jun 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Cyprus, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades, was marked by symbolism and substance. Warmly received by President Nikos Christodoulides, Modi’s historic tour reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between the two nations and underscored a shared vision for regional and global cooperation. The leaders issued a wide-ranging joint declaration, outlining a comprehensive agenda for bilateral collaboration and multilateral engagement. At its heart lies a renewed commitment to democratic values, sustainable development, and a rules-based international order underpinned by the UN Charter and international law.
Shared values, global coordination
Reiterating their mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, India and Cyprus expressed strong support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), particularly in matters of freedom of navigation and maritime rights.
The leaders also called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council to make it more reflective of contemporary geopolitical realities, with Cyprus once again backing India’s bid for a permanent seat. Cyprus and India pledged closer coordination at international forums including the UN and the Commonwealth. In particular, both leaders highlighted the significance of the 2024 Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration and the Blue Charter Centre of Excellence, recently launched in Cyprus, as key tools in advancing sustainable ocean governance.
Political and strategic dialogue
Modi and Christodoulides agreed to institutionalise regular political dialogue, facilitated by their respective foreign ministries. A new five-year Action Plan will be drawn up to guide cooperation across diplomatic, economic, defence, and cultural domains. India reaffirmed its consistent support for Cyprus’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, including backing a UN-facilitated resolution of the Cyprus issue. Both sides emphasised the importance of avoiding unilateral actions and resuming negotiations within the agreed UN framework.
Security and defence cooperation
Terrorism and hybrid threats dominated the security agenda. Both leaders condemned terrorism in all forms and denounced the recent deadly attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. They committed to a zero-tolerance approach and called for urgent global action against terrorist financing, safe havens, and proxy networks. The two sides also stressed the need for enhanced cooperation in cybersecurity, emerging technologies, and maritime security. Naval cooperation is set to deepen, with increased Indian port calls in Cyprus and new avenues for joint maritime training. In recognition of growing geopolitical instability, the two countries committed to closer coordination in crisis response and emergency preparedness, particularly in evacuation and search-and-rescue operations.
Connectivity, trade, and innovation
India and Cyprus identified the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a linchpin of regional cooperation, with Cyprus poised to serve as a key logistics hub for Indian shipping and trade routes into Europe. The leaders welcomed the prospect of Indian shipping companies establishing a presence in Cypriot ports, fostering deeper maritime linkages and economic ties. Looking to the future, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to finalising the long-awaited EU–India Free Trade Agreement by the end of 2025. Cyprus pledged to actively champion EU–India ties during its upcoming EU Council Presidency in early 2026, with trade, green energy, digital connectivity, and space emerging as core areas of strategic convergence. To bolster bilateral trade and investment, the leaders proposed a Cyprus–India Business Forum and a high-level Cypriot business delegation visit to India. New initiatives are also expected in research, innovation, and technology, particularly in AI, digital infrastructure, and academic collaboration.
Recognising the strategic value of human mobility and cultural exchanges, the two sides agreed to conclude a Mobility Pilot Program Arrangement by year’s end. Plans to expand tourism and direct air connectivity were also discussed, with the aim of boosting bilateral exchanges and easing travel. The visit concluded with a pledge to finalise a 2025–2029 Action Plan to guide bilateral cooperation, overseen by both countries’ foreign ministries. The joint declaration signals not just a renewal of ties but a significant elevation — positioning Cyprus as a key partner for India in Europe and the Mediterranean. As geopolitical turbulence reshapes global alignments, the Modi–Christodoulides summit marks a concerted effort by two strategically located democracies to advance a multipolar, inclusive, and resilient international order.
