AMN / WEB DESK
During a landmark visit to Cyprus—the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades—Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides reaffirmed the enduring friendship between India and Cyprus, rooted in shared democratic values and the rule of law. Addressing the media after delegation-level talks at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, PM Modi emphasized that the relationship between the two nations is not shaped by circumstance or limited by geography but has stood the test of time.
A key outcome of the talks was the announcement of a joint roadmap to guide bilateral relations over the next five years. PM Modi noted the alignment between India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and Cyprus’s Vision 2035, suggesting strong potential for cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Both leaders also agreed to work toward finalizing a Mobility Agreement to facilitate the movement of professionals and skilled workers between the two countries.
PM Modi congratulated Cyprus on its upcoming European Union Presidency and welcomed its continued backing of India’s bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council. He also thanked Cyprus for its steadfast support in India’s fight against terrorism, particularly in light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Both countries strongly condemned the incident, reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy on terrorism, and stressed the need to bring perpetrators to justice.
Further strengthening their strategic partnership, India and Cyprus pledged to enhance cooperation in combating terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling through a real-time intelligence exchange mechanism. They also expressed readiness to conclude the EU-India Free Trade Agreement by year-end, highlighting its economic and geopolitical significance.
The two leaders discussed global concerns such as the conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine. PM Modi reiterated his stance that this is “not an era of war” and called for peaceful dialogue and diplomatic solutions. Both sides expressed support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor as a strategic initiative to advance regional stability and prosperity.
In terms of bilateral cooperation, a wide-ranging dialogue was held covering defence, security, healthcare, technology, renewable energy, and climate action. PM Modi acknowledged the growing interest in Indian traditions like Yoga and Ayurveda in Cyprus and stressed the importance of enhancing cultural exchanges.
Internationally, the leaders emphasized the need for reforms in the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary global realities. Cyprus reaffirmed its support for India’s inclusion as a permanent member of an expanded and more representative Security Council. The two nations also agreed to continue mutual support at the United Nations and maintain close coordination on global issues, including nuclear non-proliferation and peacekeeping.
Marking a significant moment in bilateral ties, President Christodoulides conferred upon Prime Minister Modi the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III—the Republic of Cyprus’s highest civilian honor. PM Modi accepted the accolade on behalf of the 1.4 billion citizens of India, calling it a proud moment in a historic visit that promises a renewed chapter in India-Cyprus relations.
