“The event reflects the particularly close bonds between our two countries and the important contribution of the Indian community to the development of our country,” said the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, in his opening address at the Diwali celebration held at the Presidential Palace.
In his speech, the President highlighted the symbolism of Diwali, the Festival of Lights, drawing a parallel between its message and the growing relationship between Cyprus and India.
“Light is the ability to see common ground where differences prevail and to move forward when the path is not clear. The lamps of Diwali should capture the light that exists in the relationship between Cyprus and India, illuminating a path towards a brighter future,” he noted.
Emphasising the strength of the bilateral relationship, President Christodoulides underlined that, since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries had built a relationship founded on trust, solidarity and shared values.
“Today, we have a partnership with tangible substance and relevance,” he said, adding that relations between Cyprus and India continue to develop, opening new avenues for cooperation.
The President also referred to his visit to India in 2026, highlighting the warm welcome extended to him and the Indian leadership's commitment to further strengthening the friendship between the two countries. He particularly acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's determination to deepen bilateral relations, create new commercial opportunities and bring the peoples of the two countries closer together.
Referring to the broader European context, President Christodoulides underlined the importance of the forthcoming EU–India agreement, noting that closer cooperation between the European Union and India would further strengthen the partnership between the two regions and create significant opportunities for both sides.
He also reflected on the importance of looking beyond geographical distance, emphasising that the true measure of the relationship between two countries lies in what they share. While much has already been achieved, he noted, the strongest bridges between Cyprus and India are still being built.
The President further highlighted the contribution of the Indian community to Cypriot society, as well as the importance of cultural exchange, mutual understanding and people-to-people connections in bringing the two nations closer.
Relations between Cyprus and India have gained considerable momentum in recent years. The visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Cyprus in June 2025, followed by President Christodoulides’ official visit to India in May 2026, marked important milestones in bilateral relations. Both visits contributed to the further strengthening of cooperation, with the two countries agreeing to elevate their relationship to a Strategic Partnership.
Diwali, one of India's most significant and vibrant festivals, celebrates the spiritual triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. Associated with hope, renewal, prosperity and new beginnings, the festival also honours Goddess Lakshmi, who symbolises wealth and prosperity in Hindu tradition.
"Its message carries a universal meaning, reminding us that, despite our differences, we are united by our shared humanity and our common desire for a more peaceful and prosperous world," he said.
The celebration at the Presidential Palace, attended by President Christodoulides and the First Lady, Philippa Karsera, was organised by the Help2Live Charity Foundation, on the initiative of its founder, Dipak Kumar, in collaboration with the High Commission of India in Cyprus.
The event provided a meaningful opportunity to celebrate not only the richness of Indian culture and the spirit of Diwali, but also the enduring friendship between Cyprus and India, bringing together diplomacy, culture and human connection in a shared celebration of light, hope and solidarity.
