On 15 June, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Cyprus, as part of a two-day visit including Canada and Croatia. The visit of the Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus after 20 years highlighted India's interest in deepening its ties with Cyprus. PM Modi said: “The visit provides an opportunity to build upon the historical bonds and expand our ties in the areas of trade, investment, security, technology, and promote people-to-people exchanges.” Cyprus President Christo Doulides affirmed: “A strengthening of EU‑India relations will be among the priorities of the Cypriot EU presidency."
 
Focus of the meeting
Official discussions between Christodoulides and Modi during the visit centred on Cyprus’s potential as a strategic gateway to Europe through the India–Middle East–Europe Corridor (IMEC). It was a planned transnational network of sea and rail routes that would connect Indian and European markets while bypassing traditional routes like the Suez Canal.

A business roundtable held brought together leaders in banking, finance, manufacturing, defence, logistics, maritime, shipping, technology, AI, IT services, tourism, and mobility sectors. The focus was on enhancing cooperation in the financial domain and promoting investment-friendly reforms. Modi emphasised India's journey to becoming the world’s third-largest economy, and reinforcing "trust of doing business." Additionally, the leaders explored a trilateral partnership initiative involving India, Cyprus, and Greece, aimed at accelerating joint business ventures and fostering regional economic growth.

These developments are strategically aimed as Cyprus prepares to assume the rotating presidency of the EU in early 2026, offering India enhanced diplomatic leverage within EU countries. 
 
Background to India-Cyprus relations
India and Cyprus enjoyed strong and friendly relations since 1962, founded on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and cooperation. Cyprus was described as one of India’s dependable friends by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Cyprus supported India's global aspirations, such as a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, India–US Civil Nuclear Agreement both within the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). While people-to-people ties are strengthened by a vibrant Indian community and active cultural exchanges. Cyprus's location in the eastern Mediterranean and its upcoming presidency of the EU in 2026, making it a critical node to strengthen trade and connectivity between India and Europe. The visit also carried strategic importance, given Turkey’s increasing support to Pakistan by the military supplies like drones. India’s deepening ties with Cyprus was seen as a counterbalance in the region.
 
References
"India Prime Minister Modi visits Cyprus to advance trade corridor plans," Reuters, 15 June 2025
"India’s Modi arrives in Cyprus," Cyprus Mail, 15 June 2025
"PM Modi receives ceremonial welcome at Presidential Palace in Cyprus," Times of India, 16 June 2025
"PM Modi in Cyprus: 3 reasons why the nation matters for India, what is the Turkey angle," The Indian Express, 15 June 2025