India and Cyprus upgraded their ties to a strategic partnership on Friday. The two countries also launched a joint task force to expand cooperation in infrastructure, shipping and other major sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held delegation-level talks with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides during the high-level meeting.
President Christodoulides thanked India for its continued support for the reunification of Cyprus. He also backed India’s demand for a permanent seat in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Stressing the need for change, he said, “global governance must reflect today's realities”.
India and Cyprus deepen strategic ties
After the talks, PM Modi said the friendship between India and Cyprus had remained strong for decades. He added that the new strategic partnership would give fresh direction to bilateral ties.
"The bond between India and Cyprus has repeatedly stood the test of time. Today, with the formation of the India-Cyprus Strategic Partnership, we are set to infuse our relations with new ambition and new momentum," he said.
Both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in infrastructure, shipping, defence and technology. They also decided to improve coordination in security and maritime sectors.
President Christodoulides said the relationship had entered a new phase. He pointed to rapid progress in defence, innovation, technology and maritime cooperation.
"Over the past year, accelerated by the visit of Prime Minister Modi to Cyprus, our partnership has advanced with remarkable speed and determination. What began as a strategic vision is now evolving into a concrete partnership, a partnership already producing tangible results across key areas, including security, defence, technology, innovation, maritime cooperation, education, and economic connectivity", he said.
Focus on trade and investment
PM Modi said investment from Cyprus into India had almost doubled over the last decade. He linked this growth to stronger economic cooperation and the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
He said the FTA would create fresh opportunities for both countries. He also expressed confidence that the agreement would help double investments over the next five years.
To support economic growth, India and Cyprus signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements covered digital infrastructure, fintech, research and institutional cooperation.
The two sides also agreed to expand student exchange programmes and joint scientific research projects.
Cooperation on migration and security
India and Cyprus decided to move forward with a Migration and Mobility Agreement. They also discussed a Social Security Agreement to protect professionals working in both countries.
The two nations formally created a Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism. The group will focus on tackling radicalisation and cross-border threats.
PM Modi also announced plans to increase defence cooperation. The discussions focused on cyber security, maritime awareness and counter-terrorism networks.
Outcomes that will add momentum to the India-Cyprus friendship! https://t.co/8w5GwjJ202
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 22, 2026
Leaders highlight shared values
During the joint statement, PM Modi stressed that both countries respected democracy, sovereignty and the rule of law.
“The friendship between India and Cyprus is both strong and forward-looking. Our partnership is founded on a shared commitment to values such as democracy and the rule of law. We deeply respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. India is, and will continue to be, fully dedicated to upholding these principles,” he said.
Addressing the joint press meet with President Christodoulides of Cyprus.@Christodulides
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 22, 2026
https://t.co/fGPTKnRtyQ
President Christodoulides attended the meeting with a high-level delegation. The group included Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos, Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades, senior officials and business leaders.
The visit marked an important step in strengthening India-Cyprus relations and expanding cooperation in strategic and economic sectors.