Earlier, PM Modi was welcomed with full ceremonial honours at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, followed by a bilateral meeting with the Cypriot president. The leaders discussed enhancing strategic partnerships, bilateral trade, and cooperation in digital innovation and infrastructure. Modi praised Cyprus as a trusted ally and a gateway to Europe, underscoring the strong presence of Indian companies in the Mediterranean nation.
Highlights from India–Cyprus Diplomatic Engagement
During the India–Cyprus CEO Forum, PM Modi emphasized India’s ascent as the world’s fifth-largest economy, on track to becoming the third-largest. He highlighted the increasing investment from Cyprus into India, with bilateral trade reaching $150 million, and lauded Cyprus for its support in global forums.Modi also spotlighted India’s digital revolution, especially the success of UPI (Unified Payments Interface), and revealed discussions underway to bring UPI to Cyprus. He noted the political continuity in India, with his government being re-elected for a third consecutive term — a first in six decades.
In terms of infrastructure and innovation, PM Modi shared that India invests over $100 billion annually in modern development and is home to more than 100,000 startups delivering real-world solutions.
Strategic Messaging: Turkey, Pakistan, and the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor
PM Modi’s visit also carried geopolitical significance. Cyprus is a key participant in the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) — an initiative seen as a counter to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The corridor involves partners such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the European Union.Modi’s presence is also interpreted as a strategic message to Turkey, which continues to occupy Northern Cyprus and recently aligned with Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. Notably, Cyprus has been a consistent supporter of India on Kashmir and is set to chair the EU Council in 2026, promising to raise concerns over cross-border terrorism.The Cypriot government has also backed India’s bids for permanent membership in the UN Security Council, and for inclusion in the NSG and IAEA, while India has long supported Cyprus’s sovereignty and reunification.
Cyprus has assisted India during Operation Sukoon (2006 Lebanon War) and Operation Safe Homecoming (2011 Libya conflict), helping evacuate Indian nationals.
Cyprus has assisted India during Operation Sukoon (2006 Lebanon War) and Operation Safe Homecoming (2011 Libya conflict), helping evacuate Indian nationals.
Cyprus Visit in Historical Context
PM Modi is the third Indian Prime Minister to visit Cyprus, following Indira Gandhi in 1983 and Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2002. Despite historically strong ties since diplomatic relations were established in 1962, high-level visits have been infrequent.PM Modi’s Upcoming Diplomatic Schedule
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June 16–17: G7 Summit in Canada
Modi is set to participate in the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, marking his sixth consecutive appearance. He will meet newly appointed Canadian PM Mark Carney, following Justin Trudeau’s resignation in January 2025. This visit may signal a reset in India–Canada relations, which deteriorated under Trudeau's leadership. -
June 18: First-Ever Visit to Croatia
PM Modi will make a historic first visit to Croatia, where he will engage in bilateral talks with PM Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović in Zagreb. India recognized Croatia’s independence on July 9, 1992, and both nations have since maintained strong diplomatic ties.