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Context:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Cyprus highlights the growing strategic importance of the Eastern Mediterranean island nation for India.

About Cyprus

Cyprus, officially the Republic of Cyprus, is an island nation located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.

It is the third-largest and third-most populous island in the Mediterranean.

The capital and largest city is Nicosia.

The island remains divided by a UN-controlled buffer zone known as the Green Line.

• The northern portion is the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which is recognized only by Turkey.
• The southern part is the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus, a member of the European Union.

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The economy is dominated by the services sector, with tourism, shipping, and financial services being major contributors.

Pillars of the India-Cyprus Relationship

A Reliable Diplomatic Partner

Consistent Multilateral Support => Cyprus has been one of India's most dependable friends in international forums. It consistently supports India's candidature for a permanent seat in an expanded UN Security Council.

Backing on Key Issues => It backed the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement within the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which was vital for India's energy security and economic development.

Shared Stance on Terrorism => Cyprus has supported India's position on cross-border terrorism, with both nations collaborating on global counter-terrorism efforts. After a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Cyprus condemned the act and committed to raising the issue of cross-border terrorism by Pakistan at the EU level.

Gateway to Europe

Cyprus' location in the Eastern Mediterranean makes it an influential partner in the implementation of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), to enhance trade and connectivity between India and Europe.

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Bridge to the European Union => With Cyprus set to hold the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2026, it can play a key role in advocating for India's interests, including the finalization of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement.

Economic and Investment Hub => With a favorable tax regime and a strong financial services sector, Cyprus is a source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India and an ideal base for Indian companies seeking to access European markets.

Growing Security Cooperation

Shared Security Interests => Both nations are expanding cooperation in defence and security to address regional challenges. A roadmap for strengthening this cooperation is being prepared, which includes collaboration in the defence industry.

Maritime Security => The establishment of an Indian naval liaison office in Limassol and plans for joint naval exercises enhance India's maritime presence and security cooperation in the strategically important Eastern Mediterranean.

Counter-terrorism => India and Cyprus are establishing mechanisms for real-time information exchange between their security agencies to combat terrorism, arms smuggling, and drug trafficking.

Geopolitical Counterbalance

The Deepening Turkey-Pakistan Axis => Turkey, under President Erdoğan, has increasingly aligned with Pakistan. It has consistently supported Pakistan's stance on Kashmir in international forums and, more critically for India's security, has become Pakistan's second-largest arms supplier after China. During a recent conflict, drones used by Pakistan against India were reportedly of Turkish origin, a move that crossed a red line for New Delhi.

A Strategic Counterbalance => By strengthening ties with Cyprus, India sent a clear signal to Turkey that its pro-Pakistan tilt and actions against India's interests will have diplomatic consequences. India to outreach Turkey's regional rivals, including Greece, Armenia, and Egypt, is part of this broader strategy.

 Source: 

INDIAN EXPRESS