Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Cyprus on Sunday, June 15, 2025, marking the start of a significant three-nation tour that also includes Canada and Croatia. This visit to Cyprus is particularly noteworthy as it is the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades, underscoring the strengthening relationship between the two countries.
Upon arrival at the airport, PM Modi was warmly greeted by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides. The reception reflected the deep-rooted friendship and growing strategic partnership between India and Cyprus. The Prime Minister's two-day visit aims to build upon the historical bonds and explore opportunities to expand ties in various sectors, including trade, investment, security, and technology, while also promoting people-to-people exchanges.
Cyprus holds a special place in India's foreign policy, serving as a close friend and an important partner in the Mediterranean region and the European Union. This visit is expected to reaffirm the shared commitment of both nations to deepen bilateral relations and strengthen India's engagement with the region. Discussions between PM Modi and President Christodoulides are anticipated to cover a wide range of topics, including trade and investment, education, maritime cooperation, digital connectivity, and regional security.
A key highlight of the visit will be the signing of a joint declaration that encompasses multiple sectors of cooperation between India and Cyprus. This declaration is expected to lay the foundation for enhanced collaboration and partnership in areas of mutual interest. In addition to meeting with President Christodoulides, PM Modi is also scheduled to address business leaders in Limassol, fostering greater economic ties between the two countries.
The timing of PM Modi's visit is also significant, as it is his first overseas trip following the recent launch of Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure. This choice underscores the strategic importance India places on its relationship with Cyprus, particularly in the context of regional security and counter-terrorism efforts. Cyprus has consistently supported India's positions on key issues such as Kashmir, cross-border terrorism, and reforms in the United Nations Security Council, further solidifying the bond between the two nations.
Following his engagements in Cyprus, PM Modi will travel to Kananaskis, Canada, to participate in the G7 Summit, at the invitation of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. This will be PM Modi's sixth consecutive participation in the G7 Summit, where he will exchange views with leaders from G7 countries and other invited nations on critical global issues, including energy security, technology and innovation. The final leg of PM Modi's three-nation tour will take him to Croatia, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country. This visit is seen as a major milestone in India-Croatia relations and reflects India's intent to further strengthen ties with European Union members.
