India Gains Cyprus Pivot in Push for EU Connectivity

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First Indian PM visit in over two decades sees new roadmap for bilateral ties across security, trade, maritime, and global cooperation

By TRH News Desk

NEW DELHI, June 16 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in more than two decades, set the stage for a far-reaching expansion of India-Cyprus ties under a Comprehensive Partnership framework. The visit, which concluded today. PM Modi and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides held extensive deliberations, culminating in a Joint Declaration charting a strategic roadmap for bilateral relations over the next five years.

In their joint statement, the two leaders reaffirmed shared values of democracy, rule of law, and multilateralism, emphasizing their commitment to a rules-based international order grounded in the UN Charter and international law, including UNCLOS. Both sides voiced support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, discussed global conflicts including the war in Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East, and called for reforms in global institutions, particularly the UN Security Council.

In a significant diplomatic endorsement, Cyprus reiterated its full support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UN Security Council.

Stronger Political and Security Dialogue

Both countries agreed to institutionalize regular political consultations through their respective foreign ministries and closely coordinate on bilateral and multilateral platforms. India reaffirmed its steadfast support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Cyprus and called for a resumption of UN-led negotiations to resolve the Cyprus Question based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation framework.

Security cooperation featured prominently in the talks, with both leaders unequivocally condemning terrorism in all forms. Cyprus extended strong solidarity to India in its fight against cross-border terrorism, specifically condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The leaders emphasized the need to dismantle terror networks, disrupt financing channels, and bring perpetrators to justice, while calling for swift finalization of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the UN.

Defence, Maritime and Crisis Cooperation Expanded

Acknowledging evolving global security challenges, both countries agreed to expand cooperation in defence, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Maritime cooperation will also be deepened, with a focus on port calls by Indian naval vessels, joint maritime training, and enhanced domain awareness.

Crisis coordination, including emergency evacuations and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, will be institutionalized, drawing on past successful joint efforts.

Connectivity, IMEC and Regional Cooperation

Cyprus and India underscored the strategic potential of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), identifying it as a catalyst for regional stability, peace and prosperity. Cyprus, positioned as a gateway into Europe, is expected to serve as a regional hub for Indian shipping, logistics, and maritime services.

Boost to EU-India Partnership

With Cyprus set to assume the EU Council Presidency in early 2026, both sides pledged to advance EU-India strategic ties, and expressed optimism for the early conclusion of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement. They also committed to deepen cooperation through the EU-India Trade and Technology Council across sectors such as defence, maritime security, clean energy, and digital infrastructure.

Expanding Trade, Technology, and Innovation

Both leaders committed to intensifying trade and investment flows. Cyprus will send a high-level business delegation to India, and a Cyprus–India Business Forum is planned to advance economic linkages. Innovation partnerships will be explored in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and scientific research, with negotiations on a related MoU already underway.

Enhancing People-to-People Ties

Recognizing the importance of people-to-people links, India and Cyprus agreed to finalize a Mobility Pilot Program by the end of 2025 to facilitate movement of professionals and skilled workers. Plans to establish direct air connectivity, promote tourism, and expand cultural exchanges are also on the anvil.

A Five-Year Action Plan to Guide Future Cooperation

The joint declaration envisions a formal Action Plan for 2025-2029, which will be overseen by the foreign ministries of both nations. This plan will guide bilateral cooperation in key areas including political dialogue, security, economic engagement, maritime collaboration, and people-to-people exchanges.

Both leaders expressed confidence that the Comprehensive Partnership will serve as a model for cooperation, not only strengthening bilateral ties, but also contributing to regional and global peace, stability, and prosperity.

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