Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Cyprus marks a significant step towards strengthening the relationship between India and the Mediterranean island nation. Arriving on Sunday for a two-day official visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades, Modi was warmly welcomed by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides. The visit underscores the commitment of both nations to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including trade, technology, and security.

Modi, in a statement prior to his departure from New Delhi, described Cyprus as "a close friend and an important partner in the Mediterranean region and the EU." He emphasized the opportunity to build upon historical bonds and expand ties in areas of mutual interest. Echoing this sentiment, President Christodoulides hailed the visit as a "historic" event and a "new chapter" in the strategic partnership between Cyprus and India.

A key highlight of the visit was a business roundtable held in Limassol, where Modi and Christodoulides engaged with business leaders from both countries. The discussions focused on strengthening investment, technology, and business linkages. Both leaders emphasized the importance of exploring new avenues for collaboration, particularly in technology-driven sectors and shipping, given Cyprus's strategic location in the Mediterranean.

Discussions between the two leaders are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including bilateral relations, trade, infrastructure, and investment. They are also likely to address relations between India and the European Union, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), and developments related to the Cyprus problem.

In addition to economic cooperation, discussions on strengthening security ties are also on the agenda. Both countries recognize the importance of working together to address regional security challenges and combat terrorism in all its forms. Modi has emphasized the need for a global understanding on tackling terrorism, and his visit to Cyprus provides an opportunity to thank the country for its steadfast support in India's fight against cross-border terrorism.

The visit also includes symbolic gestures aimed at acknowledging India's historic contribution to UN peacekeeping in Cyprus. Modi and Christodoulides will jointly visit the Nicosia Town Hall, followed by a guided tour along the United Nations ceasefire line.

Modi's visit to Cyprus is part of a three-nation tour that also includes Canada and Croatia. Before departing for Canada, Modi will be honored with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest honor in Cyprus. The Ministry of External Affairs has described the visit as a reaffirmation of the "historic, warm, and enduring" ties between India and Cyprus. The visit is expected to open new avenues of cooperation and further deepen strategic, cultural, and economic ties between the two democracies.