Prime Minister Narendra Modi held formal talks with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia. President Christodoulides personally welcomed Prime Minister Modi at the airport a day earlier, highlighting the deep mutual respect and enduring friendship between the two nations.During the meeting, the leaders reaffirmed their shared democratic values and mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to Cyprus for its strong condemnation of the April 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam and for its continued support to India’s anti-terrorism efforts. He reiterated India’s firm support for Cyprus’s unity and a peaceful resolution of the Cyprus issue in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions, international law, and the EU Acquis.The two sides reviewed ongoing cooperation in trade, investment, science, research, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. They agreed to expand collaboration into emerging sectors such as fintech, start-ups, defence manufacturing, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, mobility, and connectivity.A significant outcome was the agreement to establish a five-year road map to enhance cooperation in key strategic areas. New dialogues on cyber and maritime security were announced, along with mechanisms for real-time information sharing on terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling.The leaders welcomed the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Programme signed in January 2025, which is expected to give tangible shape to defence ties. They also endorsed the creation of the India-Greece-Cyprus (IGC) Business and Investment Council aimed at fostering stronger economic engagement. Enhancing air connectivity was discussed to promote business, tourism, and innovation exchanges.Prime Minister Modi highlighted the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a transformative initiative for regional peace and development.On global issues, both leaders stressed their commitment to multilateralism and reform of international institutions, including the UN Security Council. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Cyprus’s consistent support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed UNSC.President Christodoulides was invited to visit India. The visit also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to establish an ICCR India Studies Chair at the University of Nicosia. A Joint Declaration on the India-Cyprus Partnership was released, outlining the shared vision for deepened ties.Image source:https://sputniknews.in/