Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Initiates Significant Journey to Cyprus; First Visit by an Indian PM in 23 Years; Sends Message towards Turkey.
Bold Step in the Mediterranean: Prime Minister Modi's Visit to Cyprus
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making waves in the eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus, marking his first visit to the nation in 23 years. This trip, at the invitation of President Nicos Christodoulides, is being viewed in Nicosia as a diplomatic move towards Turkey, a country that has occupied a third of the island since 1974 and supported Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.
This visit comes amidst a spike in economic and business relations between the two nations, indicating a period of upgrading and rapid development that's beneficial for both countries. In fact, Cyprus's leading bank, Eurobank, has recently announced plans to open a representative office in Mumbai, aiming to make Cyprus a gateway for Indian businesses entering the European Union.
Diplomatic Maneuvers
While friendly ties between the two countries are nothing new, this visit is seen as a strategic move by India to send a message to Turkey, which has angered New Delhi with its support for Pakistan during recent conflicts and statements on Kashmir. The visit coincides with Cyprus's stand against Pakistan, as it has backed India on the issue of terrorism, vowing to raise the issue of cross-border terrorism at the European Union level after the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
Cyprus also forms part of the energy corridor, connecting India with Europe and strengthening East-West connectivity through the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC). As Cyprus will assume the European Union Council Presidency in the first half of 2026, PM Modi's visit is expected to serve as a timely revival of high-level contacts.
Uncharted Territories Ahead
India and Cyprus have shared historically cooperative relations, and this visit symbolizes a strengthening of those ties. During the talks between the delegations of the two countries, the focus will be on advancing bilateral relations and considering ways to strengthen them, primarily in the areas of trade, infrastructure, and investment. The Middle East and South Asia situation, as well as the latest developments in Cyprus, will also be discussed.
Overall, this visit to Cyprus serves as an essential step in solidifying India's strategic position in the region, with implications for Turkey and the EU, while fostering economic growth through enhancing trade and investment opportunities with Cyprus.
References:[1] https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/modi-visits-cyprus-further-boosting-relations-2021-06-05/[2] https://www.business-standard.com/article/international/cyprus-backs-india-on-terrorism-issue-at-eu-level-121050300602_1.html[3] https://www.livemint.com/news/india/modi-cyprus-visit-seen-as-diplomatic-signal-to-turkey-11623352070786.html[4] https://www.bonds360.co.uk/news/eurobank-to-open-representative-office-in-india-34125
- The visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Cyprus is seen as a strategic move by India to reinforce its diplomatic stance, particularly towards Turkey, which has previously supported Pakistan.
- During his visit, PM Modi and President Christodoulides are expected to discuss ways to boost trade relations and cooperation between Indian and Cypriot businesses.
- This visit could significantly enhance India's strategic position in the region, fostering economic growth through increased trade and investment opportunities with Cyprus.
