Importance of PM Modi Visit to Cyprus for India

Context: Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Cyprus.

PM Modi Visit to Cyprus

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently concluded a historic visit to Cyprus, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited the island nation in over two decades. The visit took place from June 15-16, 2025, as the first leg of his three-nation tour that also included Canada (for the G7 Summit) and Croatia. Here’s the latest on PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus (June 15–16, 2025):

Visit Highlights & Strategic Significance

• Historic milestone: Historic Indian PM visit to Cyprus after 23 years—since Vajpayee in 2002 and Indira Gandhi in 1983
• Diplomatic messaging: The brief stopover on the way to the G7 Summit marks a strategic acknowledgement of Turkey, particularly in the backdrop of Ankara’s hand-holding with Pakistan during India’s “Operation Sindoor“

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

• Honouring cultural heritage: Modi presented a Kashmiri silk carpet and silver clutch to the President and First Lady of Cyprus, representing India’s rich artisanal heritage

• Pacts signed: Modi and President Nikos Christodoulides signed several agreements to enhance trade, economic cooperation, air services, merchant shipping, and defence or cybersecurity ties
• Defence and maritime cooperation: Announced increased maritime cooperation, Indian naval port calls, mutual training, search-and-rescue, and a terrorist-information mechanism

IMEC & Economic Gateway

• India–Middle East–Europe Corridor (IMEC): Modi noted Cyprus as a critical hub in the IMEC—India’s “gateway to Europe” before Cyprus assumes the EU Council presidency for 2026
• Business interactions: Organised dialogue with business executives to identify investment and trade opportunities via Cyprus

Peace Message & Support

• Peace advocacy: Modi underscored “this isn’t the era of war,” calling on diplomatic remedies to Middle East tensions
• Support for Cyprus in Turkey row: Expressed unabashed support for Cyprus’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity during its row with Turkey

Ceremonial Moments

• Welcomed with respect: The Nicosia council member welcomed Modi on his arrival by touching his feet, emphasising respect in the welcome
• Cypriot honour bestowed: Modi received the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian honour of Cyprus, in honour of the people of India

Importance of Cyprus for India

• Strategic Support: Backs India’s bid for UN Security Council seat & Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) membership.
• Geopolitical Counterbalance: Acts as a diplomatic counter to Turkey’s growing ties with Pakistan.
• IMEC Corridor Role: Positioned along–India–Middle East–Europe trade route.
• EU Influence: Cyprus will hold the EU Council Presidency in 2026, which will be a key for India–EU relations.

Key Importance of Cyprus for India

Cyprus has a multi-dimensional role to play for India — as a strategic gateway to Europe, partner country in global diplomacy, business and investment, economic partner, and defence/cyber partner. Its importance cuts across geography, economy, geopolitics, and engagement at more than one level.

Gateway to Europe & EU Support

• Being a member of the EU since 2004 and being in the Eurozone, Cyprus is a leading gateway for Indian companies that have European markets as their destination
• Strategically, Cyprus is a strong supporter of India’s interests in international forums—whether it is NSG membership, the India–US Nuclear Deal, or UN Security Council reform

India–Middle East–Europe Corridor (IMEC)

• Cyprus is at the heart of the proposed trade and connectivity corridor between India, the Middle East, and Europe through sea and rail
• It’s likely to act as a transhipment and logistics centre, promoting infrastructure, energy, digital trade, and economic integration

Maritime, Defence & Cybersecurity Cooperation

• India and Cyprus have committed to enhancing naval contacts, bilateral exercises, maritime security, and an information exchange mechanism to fight terror
• This showcases common concerns regarding regional stability, especially in the context of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Economic & Business Synergies

• Cyprus is a strong investor in India, with a cumulative FDI of over USD 8 billion, being one of the top sources.
• The island offers appealing sectors—shipping, professional services, fintech, real estate, and renewable energy—that supplement India’s global expansion plan
• Cyprus’ double-taxation treaty (DTAA) and attractive company tax (12.5%) make it particularly attractive for Indian companies venturing into the EU market

Historical & Diplomatic Foundation

• Relationships trace back to the early 1960s, based on common Commonwealth and Non-Aligned Movement principles
• India has consistently supported Cyprus at the UN on territorial integrity and dispute resolution — echoed most recently by PM Modi’s reaffirmations during his June 2025 visit.

Cultural & Diaspora Ties

• Indian peacekeepers served in Cyprus, and Indian Army leaders are honoured there, including a street named after Maj Gen K S Thimayya and commemorative stamps
• Today, ~7,250 Indians live in Cyprus, contributing significantly to IT, shipping, education, and professional services

About Cyprus

• Location: Eastern Mediterranean Sea
• A European Union (EU) member, despite being geographically in Asia.
• Capital: Nicosia (Lefkosia in the south, Lefkoşa in the north).
• Bordering Nations (Maritime): Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel (no land borders).

Geography

• 3rd largest Mediterranean island (after Sicily, Sardinia).
• Kyrenia Mountains (north), Troodos Mountains (south), Mesaoria Plain (centre).
• Highest peak: Mount Olympus (1,951 m).
• Mediterranean climate; rainfall is crucial for agriculture.

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