PM Modi Received with Honor by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides Photo Credit: India TV
In a significant diplomatic move, PM Modi arrived in Cyprus on Saturday as part of his multi-nation tour, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the island nation in over two decades. The visit comes at a crucial time, with Cyprus preparing to take over the presidency of the European Union in early 2026 and India seeking to strengthen its presence in Europe through key strategic partners.
A Warm Welcome to PM Modi in Cyprus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at Larnaca Airport to a ceremonial welcome by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos. Traditional Cypriot dancers and members of the Indian diaspora greeted Modi with cultural performances, while the atmosphere was charged with chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and “Modi, Modi.” The grand welcome highlighted the enthusiasm surrounding the Modi visit to Cyprus and the strong emotional connection between the two nations.
Speaking on arrival, Modi said, “Cyprus is not just a strategic partner, but also a longstanding friend of India. This visit is a reaffirmation of our shared values and commitment to global peace and prosperity.”
Enhancing Strategic and Economic Cooperation
One of the key highlights of PM Modi’s Cyprus visit is the focus on expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation. Modi held delegation-level talks with President Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace, where both sides discussed a wide range of issues including fintech, renewable energy, defence, maritime security, and digital payments.
A significant outcome of the talks is a new collaboration between India’s National Payments Corporation and Cypriot financial institutions to introduce India’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface) system to Cyprus. The move is expected to boost fintech cooperation and enable smoother transactions for businesses and travellers.
Both leaders also reviewed progress on the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a proposed trade and connectivity initiative that aims to link Indian ports with Europe via the Middle East. President Christodoulides affirmed Cyprus’s role as a “natural gateway” for India into Europe and voiced strong support for deeper economic integration.
PM Modi’s Visit Sends a Strong Geopolitical Signal
Beyond trade and investment, PM Modi’s arrival in Cyprus has been viewed as a strategic signal, especially in the backdrop of growing tensions between Turkey and Greece, and Turkey’s increasing alignment with Pakistan on international forums. Cyprus, which remains divided between the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish-controlled north, has long faced pressure from Ankara.
India, by deepening ties with Cyprus, is not only strengthening its relationship with a key European partner but also subtly asserting its foreign policy independence in the region. Analysts see the timing of the visit—just days before Modi’s participation in the G7 Summit in Canada—as a clear diplomatic message.
Engaging the Indian Diaspora and Promoting Cultural Links
Another prominent feature of PM Modi’s Cyprus visit was his interaction with the Indian community in Limassol. Addressing a packed hall of Indian-origin families, students, and professionals, Modi spoke of India’s growing global stature and the importance of the diaspora in nation-building. He praised the Indian community in Cyprus for acting as cultural ambassadors and strengthening India-Cyprus ties at the grassroots level.
The Prime Minister also unveiled a commemorative plaque marking 75 years of India-Cyprus diplomatic relations and announced a scholarship programme for Cypriot students interested in studying in India.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Cooperation as Cyprus Prepares for EU Presidency
With Cyprus scheduled to assume the EU Council Presidency in 2026, Modi’s visit is timely. India is aiming to strengthen its ties with the European Union at large, and Cyprus could play a crucial bridging role. In their joint statement, both leaders committed to finalising agreements on cybersecurity, maritime defence, tourism, and academic collaboration.
Modi is expected to depart for Canada tomorrow to attend the G7 Summit and later proceed to Croatia. However, the significance of PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus is expected to resonate far beyond this short stay, setting the tone for deeper bilateral ties and long-term strategic cooperation.
