Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Cyprus en route to the G7 summit in Canada, a move seen as strategically significant amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics. This visit, only the third by an Indian Prime Minister, gains importance considering the backdrop of strengthening Turkiye-Pakistan solidarity.
The Prime Minister's stopover in Cyprus is strategically timed, with sources suggesting it sends a message to Turkiye, particularly after its support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. The visit also aims to reaffirm India's commitment to Cyprus, an EU member, especially as Cyprus prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026.
India and Cyprus share a longstanding relationship built on mutual respect and cooperation. India recognized Cyprus shortly after its independence in 1960, and bilateral ties have strengthened over the years. Areas of cooperation include defense, trade, investment, culture, and global issues. Cyprus has consistently supported India's bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Economic ties between the two countries have also seen growth, with Cyprus ranking among the top ten investors in India. The recent launch of the India-Greece-Cyprus Business & Investment Council (IGC) further underscores the commitment to trilateral collaboration, focusing on sectors such as maritime connectivity, fintech, and renewable energy.
Meanwhile, Turkiye and Pakistan have been reinforcing their bilateral relations across various sectors. Their cooperation spans political, economic, and military domains, marked by reciprocal exercises and technology transfers. In February 2025, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's visit to Islamabad resulted in the signing of 24 agreements, aimed at boosting trade and enhancing cooperation in defense, energy, and technology. Defense cooperation includes Turkiye's assistance in modernizing Pakistan's naval capabilities and joint ventures in developing fifth-generation fighter jets. Both countries also share converging views on regional and international issues, further solidifying their alliance. This partnership is perceived by some analysts as a values-driven coalition, standing together against terrorism and promoting regional security.
PM Modi's visit to Cyprus also has economic dimensions. Cyprus, with its strategic location and expertise in shipping and financial services, serves as a gateway to European markets for India. Collaboration in pharmaceuticals, financial services, digital infrastructure, and workforce skilling offers mutual benefits and strengthens economic resilience for both nations.
Furthermore, India's growing engagement with the Mediterranean region is evident through increased visibility and strategic partnerships. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's previous visits to Cyprus and initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) highlight India's proactive role in the region. Croatia, which PM Modi will visit on his way back from the G7 summit, and Cyprus are viewed as potential participants and investors in IMEC-related projects.
The Prime Minister's visit to Cyprus sends a strong signal of India's commitment to fostering stronger ties with key European partners while strategically addressing regional dynamics.
