India-Cyprus Relations Reach New Level With Strategic Partnership and Joint Task Force

Modi described the friendship between the two countries as "strong and forward-looking." He said that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement will open new avenues for trade, investment, and economic cooperation through Cyprus. The two leaders also had in-depth discussions on the crisis in West Asia and the war in Ukraine.

PM Modi reiterated India's support for all efforts to establish peace and end conflicts quickly in both regions. Both sides also agreed on the reform of global institutions (UN, UNSC, etc.), stating that such reform is essential to meet growing global challenges.

This strategic partnership comes at a time when Turkey is continuously strengthening its defense and military ties with Pakistan. Last year, Operation Sindoor revealed Turkey's full support to Pakistan. Cyprus, on the other hand, has long been embroiled in territorial disputes and tensions with Turkey.

However, the Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday categorically stated that the growing relationship between India and Cyprus is not directed against any third country. The two countries are also expanding cooperation in the security sector, including maritime security and counter-terrorism operations. Defense cooperation was also a key issue at Friday's high-level meeting.

The two countries are developing a roadmap for defense cooperation. Cyprus holds special strategic importance for India as it is considered a vital sea gateway to Europe. Relations between India and the EU are rapidly strengthening in the changing global environment. PM Modi recently returned to India after visiting four European countries.

The Cyprus President's three-day visit to India could provide a new direction to the strategic balance and multifaceted partnership between the two sides. PM Modi made an official visit to Cyprus in 2025, which further strengthened mutual trust between the two countries. Since then, there has been steady progress in economic, cultural and political relations.