Global Politics Explainer

CWA # 1739
Global Politics Explainer
Modi’s visit to Cyprus:
Why now, what next?

Swati Sood 
4 July 2025

Photo Source:

The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 16 June. Countering terrorism, improving economic, commercial, and defence ties were discussed. India also expressed support for Cypriot Unity based on international law. 

Cyprus will chair the European Union next year. During the visit, Prime Minister Modi stated that India is working on finalising a mutually beneficial India-EU trade agreement by the end of this year. The President of Cyprus also said that a strengthening of EU-India relations will be among the priorities of the Cypriot EU presidency. The Mediterranean nation has offered facilities to be a transshipment hub as part of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). 

What is the history of the India-Cyprus relationship?

Jawaharlal Nehru and Archbishop Makarios led the initiative to establish diplomatic relations between India and Cyprus in 1962. When Cyprus was under British occupation, India had also supported its freedom struggle. 

Both countries have collaborated within the United Nations and the Commonwealth. India’s candidature as a permanent member of the expanded UN Security Council, as well as India’s membership within the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Nuclear Supplier Group (NSG), is supported by Cyprus. India supports a solution to the Cyprus question in adherence to UN resolutions, the EU acquis, and international law. Cyprus has also made efforts towards improving India-EU relations. To date, three Indian Army Generals have served as Commanders of the UN Forces in Cyprus (UNFICYP). 

What is the state of relations?

People-to-people exchanges remain steadfast. 6,908 Overseas Indians are living in Cyprus, comprising approximately 1,961 students. In FY 2023-24, total bilateral trade between India and Cyprus stood at USD 137 million. In FY 2021-22, total trade was valued at USD 214.17 million, with India’s exports to Cyprus valued at USD 139.85 million, and Cyprus’s exports to India valued at USD 74.32 million. 

The relations between both countries have been elevated to a ‘Comprehensive Partnership.’ India and Cyprus have resolved to deepen their cooperation as “trusted and indispensable partners” under the framework of a ‘Joint Declaration.’ India’s pursuit of historical alliances and convergence of values and interests with Cyprus has helped renew relations. Additionally, one of the reasons behind India’s outreach towards Cyprus is counterbalancing Turkish support for Pakistan, particularly in light of its position on Kashmir and supply of weaponry. However, it is not only India that stands to gain from better relations. Cyprus can benefit from India’s partnership to draw focus on Turkish expansionism. 

What is the strategic significance of the India-Cyprus relationship?

In consonance with the rotational presidency of the grouping, Cyprus will chair the European Union in early 2026. India will conclude a trade deal with the European Union by the end of this year. Concurrently, the President of Cyprus stated that “a strengthening of EU-India relations will be among the priorities of the Cypriot EU presidency.” 

Bound by the common, mutually determined objective of enhancing economic ties, Cyprus’ offer to become a transshipment hub as part of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) can help broaden the geographical coverage of the transport corridor, providing India with a strategic opportunity to enhance connectivity and economic cooperation with Europe and the Mediterranean region. 

References 

“Prime Minister meets the President of the Republic of Cyprus (June 16, 2025),” Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India 

“INDIA-CYPRUS BILATERAL RELATIONS,” Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India 

“CYPRUS - INDIA RELATIONS,” High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus, New Delhi 

“Cyprus Archives,” Economic Diplomacy Division, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India 

“Estimated Data of Indian students studying abroad,” Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India 

“India expects EU trade deal by year end as Cyprus pledges support,” Reuters, 16 June 2025 

“Joint declaration on the implementation of the comprehensive partnership between the Republic of Cyprus and the Republic of India (June 16, 2025),” Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India 

IANS, “PM Modi Visits Symbolic Ceasefire Zone In Cyprus with President Christodoulides,” Free Press Journal, 16 June 2025 

About the author
Swati Sood is an undergraduate student in Political Science at the University of Delhi. 


 

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