India and Cyprus have unveiled a comprehensive strategic roadmap aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation across key sectors, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a landmark official visit to the Mediterranean island nation — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades.
The two countries issued a Joint Declaration outlining shared commitments to defense, economic cooperation, technology, and global security. The declaration was released by both the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the Government of Cyprus, highlighting the renewed vigor in ties between the two nations.
In a strong show of solidarity, both sides unequivocally condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where civilians were killed. The joint statement described the incident as "heinous" and reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism, with Cyprus expressing full support for India's fight against cross-border terrorism.
Describing the visit as a “historic milestone,” the declaration emphasized shared values such as democracy, multilateralism, and sustainable development. The two countries also reiterated their support for a rules-based international order underpinned by the UN Charter.
With Cyprus set to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in early 2026, both nations committed to working towards concluding the long-pending EU-India Free Trade Agreement by the end of 2025 — a step viewed as having “significant economic and strategic potential.”
The strategic partnership will be guided by a bilateral Action Plan for 2025–2029, overseen by the respective foreign ministries. Both leaders held in-depth discussions on regional and global issues, agreeing to expand cooperation in cybersecurity, maritime safety, defense, innovation, and economic connectivity.
Cyprus will also be positioned as a gateway for Indian maritime and logistics enterprises into Europe, with a focus on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Plans include joint naval exercises, port visits, and expanded maritime training.
On technology and innovation, India and Cyprus announced intentions to boost AI collaboration, digital infrastructure, and research ties, with a new MoU in the pipeline. A Cyprus-India Business Forum has also been proposed to enhance trade and investment flows.
The roadmap places a strong emphasis on people-to-people ties, with both sides working towards finalizing a Mobility Pilot Program Arrangement by 2025. Plans to explore direct air connectivity and promote tourism were also discussed.
Cyprus reaffirmed its support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on a reformed United Nations Security Council, and both countries agreed to coordinate closely within the UN, the Commonwealth, and other multilateral bodies.
As part of emergency preparedness efforts, the two nations committed to deepening institutional cooperation in Search and Rescue (SAR), crisis response, and evacuation protocols.
The visit, described as a celebration of a “forward-looking partnership,” marks a renewed chapter in India-Cyprus relations — one grounded in mutual trust and aimed at contributing to regional and global peace, prosperity, and stability. (Source: ANI)
