New Delhi 16 June : Prime Minister Narendra Modi held official talks today with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, H.E. Nikos Christodoulides, at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. He was welcomed with full ceremonial honours. In a special gesture, President Christodoulides had also received Prime Minister Modi at the airport, reflecting the close and friendly ties between the two nations.
During their meeting, the leaders reaffirmed shared democratic values and respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Prime Minister Modi thanked Cyprus for its strong condemnation of the April 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam and its continued support for India’s fight against terrorism. He reiterated India’s support for the unity of Cyprus and a peaceful resolution to the Cyprus issue in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and international law.
The two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, science and research, culture, and people-to-people ties. They also identified new areas for collaboration, including fintech, start-ups, defence, digitalization, artificial intelligence, connectivity, and mobility. A five-year roadmap will be developed to advance strategic cooperation.
In the area of security, both sides agreed to establish cyber and maritime security dialogues and create mechanisms for real-time information exchange on terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling. They welcomed the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Programme signed in January 2025 and the establishment of the India-Greece-Cyprus Business and Investment Council to deepen economic ties.
Improving air connectivity, especially to promote business, tourism, and innovation, was also discussed. Prime Minister Modi underlined the importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) for regional peace and prosperity.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and global governance reform, including the UN Security Council. Prime Minister Modi expressed appreciation for Cyprus’s continued support for India’s permanent membership in a reformed UNSC. They also discussed current global conflicts in West Asia and Europe.
An MoU was signed to set up an India Studies ICCR Chair at the University of Nicosia, and a Joint Declaration on the India-Cyprus Partnership was issued. Prime Minister Modi invited President Christodoulides to visit India. (KNS)
