What happened?
The President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an official visit to Cyprus from June 15 to June 16, 2025. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over two decades. The leaders held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral, regional, and global issues, reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, democracy, and a rules-based international order. They underscored support for UN Security Council reform, with Cyprus reiterating its support for India as a permanent member in an expanded UNSC. Both sides unequivocally condemned terrorism, including the recent attacks in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, and called for concerted actions against UN- and EU-designated terrorists. They also agreed to deepen defence and security cooperation, including in cybersecurity and maritime domain awareness, and committed to strengthening cooperation in emergency preparedness and crisis response. The leaders discussed the significance of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and strengthening EU–India relations, aiming for the conclusion of the EU–India Free Trade Agreement by the end of this year.
Why it matters to India
Prime Minister Modi’s historic visit to Cyprus strengthens India’s enduring friendship and strategic vision with a key European partner. The joint declaration highlights a growing alignment of values and interests, particularly in upholding a rules-based international order and reforming the UN Security Council, with Cyprus supporting India’s permanent membership bid. The commitment to countering terrorism, including cross-border threats, reinforces India’s zero-tolerance approach and calls for global accountability for perpetrators. Deepening defence and security cooperation, including in the maritime domain and cybersecurity, enhances India’s strategic autonomy and defence readiness. Furthermore, discussions on the IMEC and strengthening EU-India strategic engagement, including efforts to finalize a Free Trade Agreement, are crucial for advancing India’s economic integration and connectivity with Europe and the wider Middle East.