In a significant diplomatic move, PM Modi in Cyprus marked the beginning of a five-day, three-nation visit, underlining India’s focus on deepening bilateral ties with key global partners. The visit to Cyprus is particularly historic, as it is the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over 20 years, symbolizing renewed interest and collaboration between the two nations.
Upon arrival, PM Modi in Cyprus was received warmly by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides at the airport, a gesture that set the tone for a productive and symbolic visit. His engagements kicked off with a keynote address at the India-Cyprus CEO Forum held in Limassol, where he championed India’s meteoric digital growth and infrastructure development, while also advocating for a stronger India-European Union (EU) partnership.
India and Cyprus: Renewed Economic Cooperation
One of the core themes emphasized during PM Modi in Cyprus was the reinvigoration of economic ties. At the CEO Forum, PM Modi pitched India as an emerging hub of digital innovation and infrastructure investment. He said, “India has undergone a significant transformation in the past decade, and it is remarkable that the same government has been elected for a third consecutive term after six decades.”
He pointed to the digital revolution that has swept across India over the past ten years, highlighting the unparalleled growth of digital transactions. Notably, 50% of the world’s digital payments are now processed through India’s UPI (Unified Payments Interface). “Countries like France are already part of the UPI ecosystem, and I welcome Cyprus to join this network of digital integration,” stated PM Modi in Cyprus.
Maritime Infrastructure and Innovation
Another focus area during PM Modi in Cyprus was infrastructure development, with a spotlight on the maritime and aviation sectors. The Prime Minister announced a new shipbuilding policy that aligns with India’s strategy of investing more than USD 100 billion annually into infrastructure. This investment encompasses port development, shipbreaking, and civil aviation improvements.
He also took the opportunity to highlight India’s startup ecosystem. “Innovation is no longer just a buzzword; it has become a strong pillar of India’s economic power,” said PM Modi in Cyprus, pointing to over 100,000 active startups in India that offer solutions rather than just dreams.
Trilateral Economic Council and Strategic Cooperation
A notable milestone during PM Modi in Cyprus was the announcement of the formation of the India, Cyprus, and Greece Business and Investment Council. PM Modi hailed the initiative as a step in the right direction toward establishing a platform for trilateral cooperation, promoting trade, investment, and innovation between the three countries.
“This council is a very good initiative, and it has the potential to become a significant mechanism for economic collaboration,” he emphasized. Business leaders attending the forum were assured that suggestions and ideas discussed would be seriously considered and followed up with an actionable roadmap.
India-EU Free Trade Agreement on the Horizon
One of the biggest takeaways from PM Modi in Cyprus was the reaffirmed commitment to finalizing a free trade agreement between India and the European Union. “We are committed to concluding a free trade agreement with the EU by the end of this year. The momentum in the negotiations is strong,” said the Prime Minister.
He stressed the importance of trade partnerships with Europe and welcomed the cooperation between the Cyprus Stock Exchange and India’s National Stock Exchange through GIFT City in Gujarat. Cypriot investors were invited to explore business opportunities in India’s growing economy.
A Symbolic and Strategic Stop
PM Modi in Cyprus also took to social media to share highlights from his engagements. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “Strengthening business ties! President Nikos Christodoulides and I met with top CEOs, aiming to fortify trade ties between India and Cyprus. Sectors such as innovation, energy, and technology offer immense potential.”
This stop in Cyprus, as the first leg of his trip, is not just symbolic but strategically crucial. With Croatia and Canada lined up next, the visit underscores India’s proactive diplomacy in engaging with diverse global partners across Europe and North America.
Strategic Importance of Cyprus
Cyprus holds geopolitical significance in the Eastern Mediterranean region and serves as a gateway between Europe, Asia, and Africa. PM Modi in Cyprus comes at a time when India is expanding its influence in global supply chains and digital connectivity. Strengthening ties with Cyprus offers both countries an opportunity to enhance connectivity in key sectors such as shipping, fintech, and tourism.
Commitment to Reform and Economic Transparency
Another major point of emphasis during PM Modi in Cyprus was India’s reform trajectory. He underlined how India has maintained consistent economic reforms to promote transparency, ease of doing business, and a pro-investment environment. The Modi administration’s efforts in regulatory reform, tax simplification, and digital governance were presented as a model for emerging economies.
“India is moving forward with the mantra of ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance’,” said PM Modi, reaffirming that regulatory reforms are aligned with global standards.
Summary
In conclusion, PM Modi in Cyprus serves as a pivotal chapter in India’s ongoing diplomatic and economic engagement with Europe. His address at the CEO Forum, announcement of a new shipbuilding policy, emphasis on India’s digital leadership, and reaffirmed commitment to the India-EU Free Trade Agreement all highlight a government focused on global integration and economic leadership.
With over 100,000 startups, cutting-edge infrastructure projects, and a digital ecosystem that leads the world in transaction volume, India’s presence on the global stage is increasingly influential. PM Modi in Cyprus reinforced this vision, laying down a roadmap for future cooperation, investment, and innovation.
As the visit continues to Croatia and Canada, one thing is clear: PM Modi in Cyprus has set a high bar for India’s international economic diplomacy in 2025.