Cyprus and India Announce a New Phase of Strategic Partnership

Cyprus and India are entering a new phase of strategic cooperation. This was announced by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, and the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, following talks in New Delhi during the Cypriot leader’s official visit.

During the meeting, the sides signed five memorandums of understanding and one technical agreement. The documents provide for expanded cooperation in counterterrorism, diplomatic training, innovation and technology, higher education, scientific research, culture, as well as search and rescue operations.

The leaders of the two countries stressed that relations between Nicosia and New Delhi are taking on a strategic character. The main focus was on security, defense, shipping, technology, the economy and international connectivity.

President Christodoulides said the visit was an important milestone for bilateral relations. He noted that he is also in India as a representative of the country holding the presidency of the Council of the European Union and emphasized the importance of strengthening the partnership between the EU and India.

Particular attention during the talks was given to the IMEC economic corridor, which is to connect India, the Middle East and Europe. According to the President of Cyprus, the development of transport and energy connectivity is of strategic importance for the entire region.

Christodoulides also separately thanked India for its consistent support of efforts to reunify Cyprus and preserve the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the republic.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in turn, described relations between the countries as strong and historically close. He stressed that Cyprus is an important gateway for India to Europe and is among the largest investors in the Indian economy. According to Modi, the sides intend to double the volume of investments over the next five years.

Prospects for cooperation in energy, infrastructure, agriculture, cybersecurity, military training and migration policy were also discussed.