Key Points from Daily PIB Updates (June 18, 2025)
In a historic visit, the President of the Republic of Cyprus welcomed the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over two decades. This milestone reaffirmed the deep and enduring friendship between the two nations and highlighted a forward-looking partnership based on mutual trust, respect, and shared strategic vision.
During their discussions, both leaders agreed to prepare a detailed Action Plan to guide bilateral relations for the next five years (2025-2029). This plan will be supervised and monitored jointly by the foreign ministries of both countries to ensure sustained progress across strategic sectors.
The economic aspect of the partnership was a significant focus. Both countries agreed to expand trade and investment opportunities, with plans for a Cyprus–India Business Forum and a possible Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on innovation, technology, AI, digital infrastructure, and research. Cyprus is positioned as a gateway into Europe for Indian firms, facilitated by infrastructure initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Defence and maritime cooperation were also highlighted. Enhanced defence partnership with expanded collaboration in maritime security, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism information-sharing frameworks was agreed upon. Both leaders pledged to increase maritime cooperation, including more frequent Indian naval visits to Cypriot ports and joint training and search-and-rescue operations.
India reaffirmed strong support for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of the Republic of Cyprus, sending a clear diplomatic message amid ongoing tensions between Cyprus and Turkey.
The leaders also resolved to enhance mobility, finalize a Mobility Pilot Program by the end of 2025, and strengthen tourism and cultural exchanges. Discussions are exploring the establishment of direct air connectivity between India and Cyprus to boost people-to-people ties.
The Joint Declaration reaffirmed the strategic bond and shared values, committing India and Cyprus to work together for regional and global peace, stability, and prosperity. Both nations underscored their roles as trusted partners contributing positively on the international stage.
This enhanced partnership encapsulates a multifaceted cooperation emphasizing economic growth, defence collaboration, sovereignty support, and cultural exchange, with a structured roadmap for cooperation over the next five years. This significantly strengthens India-Cyprus relations in a strategically important region.
- In the context of the Action Plan, the leaders aim to foster collaboration in innovation, technology, AI, and digital infrastructure, thereby positioning Cyprus as a gateway for Indian firms in Europe.
- Recognizing the importance of sustainable development, the discussions also touched upon the integration of electric vehicles in the Cypriot lifestyle and the potential role of science and technology in environmental conservation.
- The leaders further emphasized the need for geographical cooperation, proposing joint research and development in renewable energy technologies to promote a greener economy and reduce carbon emissions.
- In addition to enhancing traditional defense partnerships, both countries sought to explore the integration of smart and autonomous cars in maritime security operations, leveraging technology for advancements in safety and efficiency.
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