Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Cyprus, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades, has significantly strengthened the relationship between India and Cyprus. During his visit on June 15-16, 2025, Modi held extensive talks with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, focusing on bolstering bilateral cooperation across various sectors and addressing regional and global issues of mutual concern.

A key takeaway from the visit was the shared sentiment that "this is not an era of war." Both leaders expressed concern over ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Europe, emphasizing the need for resolution through dialogue and the restoration of stability. This aligns with India's consistent stance on peaceful conflict resolution and its commitment to a rules-based international order.

The two leaders agreed that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor will pave the way for peace and prosperity in the region. Modi and Christodoulides underscored their shared commitment to peace, democracy, the rule of law, effective multilateralism, and sustainable development. They reaffirmed their support for a rules-based international order, grounded in the UN Charter and international law, placing particular emphasis on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), with regard to freedom of navigation and sovereign maritime rights.

In a joint declaration, Cyprus and India committed to deepening their cooperation as trusted and indispensable partners contributing to regional and global peace, prosperity, and stability. To guide this enhanced partnership, the two countries have established a five-year action plan, overseen by their respective foreign ministries, to strengthen economic ties, collaboration in research, innovation and technology, as well as other sectors including tourism and trade.

Several concrete steps were taken to boost economic cooperation. Cyprus is set to integrate with India's UPI payment platform, facilitating seamless financial transactions between the two countries. The NSE GIFT City exchange has signed an MoU with the Cyprus Stock Exchange, promoting investment and collaboration in the financial sector. Furthermore, BAO Capital Partners, a Cyprus-based fund, has pledged over $100 million for India-focused investments, demonstrating the growing confidence in the Indian market.

Recognizing the increasing alignment of their values, interests, international outlook and vision, both sides expressed their determination to further advance this partnership across key sectors. Cyprus pledged to work towards the advancement of the EU-India strategic partnership during its upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026 and both sides expressed readiness to support the conclusion of the EU–India Free Trade Agreement by the end of this year recognizing its significant economic and strategic potential.

Beyond economics, Modi thanked Cyprus for its consistent support in India's fight against cross-border terrorism. To further strengthen security cooperation, the two countries plan to develop a real-time information exchange mechanism between their agencies to counter terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling.

Modi's visit also served to reiterate India's support for the unity of Cyprus and a peaceful resolution of the "Cyprus question," sending an indirect message to Turkiye. India has consistently supported the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of the Republic of Cyprus.

The visit has not only strengthened bilateral ties but also revived political contact with Cyprus, especially as it prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026. Cyprus has been a reliable partner to India, supporting its bid for a permanent seat at the UNSC, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

During the visit, PM Modi was conferred with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian honor of Cyprus. Modi dedicated the honor to the friendly ties between India and Cyprus and their shared values and mutual understanding.

Overall, PM Modi's visit to Cyprus marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries, characterized by enhanced cooperation across various sectors, a shared commitment to peace and stability, and a strong foundation of mutual trust and respect.