Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his 4-nation tour with a significant stop in Cyprus. Upon arrival, he was warmly welcomed by President Nikos Christodoulides at the airport with a red carpet ceremony and a ceremonial guard of honour.
Modi proceeded to Limassol, where he met members of the Indian diaspora. Children greeted him with enthusiasm, and chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” echoed outside the hotel.
Strengthening India-Cyprus Ties
PM Modi and President Christodoulides held a key bilateral meeting focused on boosting economic cooperation. Business leaders from both countries participated in the talks. PM Modi addressed the India-Cyprus CEO Forum, where he said:
“In the last decade, India has emerged as the 5th largest economy in the world. We are rapidly moving towards becoming the 3rd largest. Cyprus has been a trusted partner, and our trade has reached $150 million – but the true potential is much higher.”
Modi’s Multi-Nation Tour: Route & Purpose
PM Modi’s visit spans June 15–19, covering three countries:
- June 15–16: Cyprus
- June 16–17: Canada (G7 Summit)
- June 18: Croatia (first-ever visit by an Indian PM)
- June 19: Return to India
He will travel a total of 27,745 km during this diplomatic journey.
Strategic Aims of Cyprus Visit
- IMEC Corridor Participation: Cyprus plays a key role in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, seen as a counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
- Message to Türkiye & Pakistan: India’s outreach to Cyprus indirectly signals displeasure toward Türkiye’s growing support for Pakistan, especially regarding Kashmir and Northern Cyprus.
- Support During Evacuation Missions: Cyprus played a vital role in past Indian rescue missions like Operation Sukoon (Lebanon, 2006) and Operation Safe Homecoming (Libya, 2011).
- Support on Kashmir & Global Forums: Cyprus has backed India’s stance on Kashmir and consistently supported India’s bid for UNSC permanent membership and NSG entry.
- Historical Military Bonds: Indian generals have led UN peacekeeping missions in Cyprus. Gen. K.S. Thimayya is especially remembered with respect.
Highlights of Modi’s Visit So Far
- Red carpet welcome and guard of honour at the airport
- Emotional interaction with Indian children and diaspora
- A heartfelt poem recited by a Cypriot Indian woman
- PM’s autograph and blessings to children
- Business leaders’ meeting on enhancing bilateral trade
What Modi Said
“Cyprus is a gateway to Europe for India. The warmth of the Indian community here reflects our unbreakable bond.”
He also posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Grateful to the Indian community in Cyprus for their love. India looks forward to stronger ties with Cyprus.”
Know Cyprus
- Location: Eastern Mediterranean Sea
- Capital: Nicosia
- Independence: 1960 (from UK)
- Division: Since 1974, Cyprus has been divided between the Greek-Cypriot south and Turkish-occupied north (Northern Cyprus, unrecognized except by Türkiye)
- Diplomatic Ties with India: Since 1962
Upcoming Events
- June 16–17: Modi to attend the G7 Summit in Canada, marking his 6th consecutive G7 participation.
- June 18: Historic visit to Croatia, with talks expected on Ayurveda, pharma, education, and technology partnerships.