Cyprus and India are set to move beyond cooperation toward co-creation and shared prosperity, following the decision to upgrade their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated after his meeting with President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, at Hyderabad House on Friday.
President Christodoulides said that the two countries are building a partnership with strategic depth and global significance, benefiting both their peoples and their wider regions.
The two governments signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding covering key areas such as counter-terrorism, search and rescue cooperation, diplomatic training, higher education and research, innovation and technology, and cultural collaboration.
Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus, while highlighting the island’s role—particularly during its EU Council Presidency—as a gateway for strengthening India–EU relations and facilitating investment flows into Europe.
He noted that Cyprus is already among the top ten investors in India, with investments nearly doubling over the past decade. With growing mutual trust and the prospects of an India–EU Free Trade Agreement, both sides aim to double this investment again within the next five years.
The newly established Strategic Partnership is expected to deepen ties between the financial and services sectors of both countries, unlock capital for trade, and create new opportunities for Indian companies in infrastructure, energy, and agriculture in Cyprus. At the same time, cooperation will expand in high-growth sectors such as shipping and maritime transport, innovation ecosystems, and startup networks.
On security and defense, both leaders agreed to strengthen collaboration in cybersecurity, maritime security, and counter-terrorism, building on increased military exchanges and training initiatives in recent years.
President Christodoulides described the development as a milestone that enhances longstanding ties and accelerates cooperation across key sectors including security, defense, technology, innovation, shipping, education, and economic connectivity.
He also emphasized Cyprus’ strategic position as a reliable bridge between India and Europe, as well as the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East, particularly in the context of initiatives such as the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to international law, multilateralism, and global stability, while also discussing major international developments, including Ukraine and the Middle East.
Concluding, both sides expressed confidence that the new Strategic Partnership marks the beginning of a more ambitious and dynamic phase in Cyprus–India relations—one focused on building bridges, fostering dialogue, and delivering tangible results for shared prosperity.
