India has reaffirmed its strong support for Cyprus amidst the ongoing tensions with Turkiye, signaling a deepening of bilateral relations and a strategic alignment in the Eastern Mediterranean. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Cyprus, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades, underscores this commitment and is widely seen as a message to Turkiye, particularly in light of its close ties with Pakistan.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi held talks with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, where he reiterated India's unwavering support for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of Cyprus. This was further emphasized in a joint statement that called for a lasting settlement to the "Cyprus question," a long-standing dispute stemming from the division of the island since 1974, when Turkish forces invaded and occupied the northern third of Cyprus. Turkiye is the only country that recognizes the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, while India maintains relations with the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus.
Modi's itinerary included a visit to the Green Line, the UN-controlled buffer zone that separates the Republic of Cyprus from the Turkish-occupied north. This symbolic gesture highlighted India's support for Cyprus's territorial integrity and its call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The visit also served to strengthen cooperation between India and Cyprus in various sectors, including defense, maritime security, trade, and counter-terrorism. Both countries have agreed to ramp up collaboration in these areas, with a particular focus on cybersecurity and emerging technologies.
Cyprus has consistently supported India on critical issues, including its stance on Kashmir and cross-border terrorism. Following a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Cyprus condemned the act and pledged to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism at the European Union level. Cyprus has also backed India's bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council and its membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group and the International Atomic Energy Agency.
In a reciprocal gesture, India has consistently supported the resolution of the Cyprus dispute in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions, international law, and the EU acquis. This mutual support reflects a shared commitment to upholding international norms and principles and promoting regional stability. The timing of Prime Minister Modi's visit is particularly significant, as Cyprus is set to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026. This provides an opportunity for closer collaboration between India and Cyprus on various issues of mutual interest, including trade, security, and regional cooperation.
Moreover, Cyprus's strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean, its membership in the EU, and its historical and cultural ties with India make it a valuable partner for India's engagement with Europe and the Mediterranean region. As India seeks to expand its economic and strategic footprint in the region, Cyprus can serve as a gateway for Indian businesses and investments, facilitating trade and connectivity between India, Europe, and the Middle East. To this end, both countries are exploring the possibility of establishing an India-Cyprus economic corridor to promote greater economic cooperation and integration.
