India and Cyprus vow to combat terrorism, elevate bilateral ties to strategic partnership
New Delhi, May 22
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides on Friday reiterated their commitment to combating terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, during their meeting in New Delhi.
The talks between both leaders covered areas of trade and investment, defence and security, maritime and financial connectivity, technology and innovation, mobility, education, culture and India-European Union (EU) engagement.
"Building upon India-Cyprus comprehensive and trusted partnership! Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging discussions with President Christodulides of Cyprus in New Delhi today. The discussions covered areas of trade and investment, defence and security, maritime and financial connectivity, technology and innovation, mobility, education, culture and India-EU engagement. They also exchanged perspectives on regional and global issues," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X.
"Both leaders reiterated their commitment in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism. In a significant step, India and Cyprus elevated their bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. The leaders also witnessed exchange of several agreements including counter-terrorism, maritime security, diplomatic training, innovation, education and culture among others," he added.
Before the meeting, President Christodoulides shared a light moment with PM Modi as both posed for a selfie at the Hyderabad House.
Earlier in the day, President Christodoulides paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar also called on President Christodoulides and expressed appreciation for his positive sentiments and guidance for the bilateral ties and cooperation between India and the European Union.
Following the meeting, EAM Jaishankar posted on X, "Delighted to call on President Christodulides of the Republic of Cyprus in New Delhi today. Value his positive sentiments and guidance for strengthening our bilateral ties and India - EU cooperation."
Christodoulides arrived in the national capital on Thursday and was received at the airport by Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta.
"Warm welcome to President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus as he arrives in New Delhi following the Mumbai leg of his visit. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour and was warmly received by Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Ajay Tamta," the MEA posted on X.
The visit builds on the momentum generated by PM Modi's historic visit to Cyprus in June 2025 and reflects the shared commitment to further strengthening the India-Cyprus partnership.
Christodoulides is also scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu who will host an official banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Before arriving in New Delhi, Christodoulides travelled to Mumbai as part of his four-day State Visit to India. Earlier on Thursday, Christodoulides, along with NSE Chairman Srinivas Injeti and NSE MD and CEO Ashishkumar Chauhan, rang the NSE India bell in Mumbai.
In a statement, MEA stated, "India and Cyprus share close and time-tested partnership. The visit will build upon the ongoing momentum in bilateral relations, reflecting the shared commitment of both sides to further deepen cooperation, including in the wider India-EU context. The two countries will mark 65 years of diplomatic relations on 10 February 2027."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting to see India strengthening ties with Cyprus. The selfie between Modi and Christodoulides was a nice touch - shows the warmth in the relationship. Hope the trade agreements actually lead to more tangible benefits for Indian businesses and not just lip service.
Good to see focus on counter-terrorism and cross-border terrorism. But I hope the strategic partnership translates into concrete action, especially in the UN and other forums where Cyprus can support India on Kashmir and other issues. Diplomacy needs follow-through, not just photo-ops.
The delegation seems comprehensive - trade, defence, maritime, education, culture. Cyprus is a small but strategic island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean. India is smart to deepen ties there, especially with the EU angle. The NSE bell-ringing in Mumbai is a nice symbolic gesture too.
I just hope this isn't another agreement that gathers dust. We have so many strategic partnerships now - do we really see the benefits on the ground for common citizens? Good that they're talking about education and culture, but let's see some real student exchanges and cultural programs happening.
Strategic partnership with Cyprus makes sense given their location and EU membership. The joint stance on terrorism is crucial in today's world. Also appreciated that President Christodoulides paid tribute at Rajghat - small gestures matter in diplomacy. 🇮🇳🤝🇨🇾
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