June 16, 2025
New defence focus includes cooperation in cyber and maritime security
Modi thanks Cyprus for backing India’s UNSC bid and counter-terrorism efforts
Emphasis on real-time intelligence sharing and direct air connectivity
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor seen as a path to regional peace
In a significant step to deepen India’s engagement with the Mediterranean region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides have agreed to craft a comprehensive roadmap to advance bilateral ties across strategic, security, and economic dimensions. The development comes during Modi’s landmark visit to Cyprus—the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades.
After delegation-level talks, Modi announced plans to strengthen defence and security cooperation, with a renewed focus on the defence industry under the bilateral Defence Cooperation Programme. “A separate dialogue will be initiated on cyber and maritime security,” he said, highlighting new-age threats that require a coordinated international response.
He thanked Cyprus for its “continued support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism”. He announced that a real-time information exchange system would be created between the agencies of both nations.
Modi reiterated India’s position against escalating global conflicts, saying, “This is not an era of war,” and pointed to the two countries’ shared concern over ongoing conflicts in Europe and West Asia. He also expressed gratitude to Cyprus for supporting India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council, an agenda both countries agree needs urgent modernisation.
Recognising Cyprus as a popular European destination for Indian travellers, Modi called for direct air connectivity to boost tourism and people-to-people ties. He underscored the importance of regional integration, saying the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) would be a “pathway to peace and prosperity” for all nations involved.
The visit, marked by ceremonial honours and strategic dialogue, saw participation from key Indian officials, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
Calling the ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace a “stamp of unbreakable friendship,” Modi stressed that the honour symbolised the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. Cyprus is the first stop on Modi’s three-nation tour, which aims to enhance India’s global partnerships across regions.
Source: Economic Times