Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Cyprus commenced with a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia, marking a significant moment in the relationship between India and Cyprus. The visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades, underscores the growing importance of the ties between the two nations and sets the stage for enhanced cooperation across various sectors.
Upon his arrival at Larnaca International Airport on Sunday, June 15, 2025, PM Modi was personally greeted by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides. This special gesture highlighted the warmth and cordiality that characterize the relations between India and Cyprus. Following the airport reception, PM Modi proceeded to Lemesos, where he received a rousing welcome from the Indian community and Cypriot public, reflecting the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries.
The ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia was a grand affair, complete with traditional honors. President Christodoulides formally welcomed PM Modi, and the two leaders introduced their respective delegations, setting the stage for bilateral talks. These discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including trade, investment, security, technology, education, and digital cooperation, all aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between India and Cyprus.
PM Modi expressed his gratitude to President Christodoulides for the warm welcome, emphasizing that his visit would provide significant momentum to India-Cyprus relations, particularly in trade and investment. Cyprus, a key partner in the Mediterranean region and the European Union, holds strategic importance for India. Its maritime connectivity and location make it a potential hub in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which India proposed during its G20 Presidency in 2023.
During his visit, PM Modi highlighted India's economic transformation and the opportunities it offers to Cypriot companies. He noted that India is on track to become the world's third-largest economy, driven by reforms, policy predictability, and a focus on ease of doing business. He also emphasized India's commitment to innovation, digital revolution, and infrastructure development.
The discussions between PM Modi and President Christodoulides are also expected to address regional security and broader international developments, including the India-EU partnership. Given Cyprus's upcoming presidency of the EU Council in 2026, the visit is crucial for deepening India-EU collaboration. Furthermore, PM Modi's visit sends a strong signal of India's commitment to supporting countries that back its fight against cross-border terrorism.
In addition to the official engagements, PM Modi and President Christodoulides jointly participated in a business roundtable in Limassol with Indian and Cypriot entrepreneurs. This interaction aimed to boost commercial linkages between the two countries, with a focus on sectors like innovation, energy, and technology.
PM Modi's visit to Cyprus is part of a three-nation tour that includes Canada for the G7 Summit and Croatia. This underscores India's active engagement with key global partners and its commitment to addressing pressing international issues. The visit to Cyprus not only strengthens bilateral ties but also reinforces India's role as a significant player in the Mediterranean region and beyond.
