New Delhi, May 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced the elevation of India-Cyprus relations to a strategic partnership, describing Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides’ visit as a significant milestone in bilateral ties.
Addressing a joint press conference with President Christodoulides after bilateral talks at Hyderabad House, PM Modi said the upgraded partnership reflects growing trust and expanding economic engagement between the two countries.
Highlighting the economic relationship, the Prime Minister said Cyprus ranks among India’s top ten investors and noted that Cypriot investments in India have nearly doubled over the past decade.
PM Modi said the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement process and broader economic engagement present fresh opportunities for bilateral investment growth.
“Cyprus is one of India’s top 10 investors. In the last decade, investments from Cyprus in India have nearly doubled. Trust between the two countries has grown. Leveraging new opportunities, we aim to double this investment once again over the next five years,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the decision to elevate ties to a strategic partnership reflects a shared commitment to deepening cooperation across sectors.
Welcoming President Christodoulides and his delegation, PM Modi recalled his 2025 visit to Cyprus and thanked the Cypriot leadership for the warm reception and the conferment of Cyprus’s highest civilian honour.
He described the bilateral relationship as “strong and futuristic”, anchored in shared democratic values and respect for the rule of law.
PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating that these values continue to guide India’s foreign policy approach.
The two leaders also exchanged views on key global and regional developments, including conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine.
PM Modi said India remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at achieving an early end to conflicts and promoting peace and stability.
He further underlined the need for urgent and meaningful reforms in global institutions to address increasingly complex international challenges.
President Christodoulides’ visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to India-Cyprus cooperation across trade, investment, connectivity and strategic affairs.
