Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides on Friday said relations between India and Cyprus are moving beyond strategic intent into a “concrete partnership,” as both countries expanded cooperation across defence, maritime affairs, technology, innovation and economic connectivity during high-level talks in New Delhi.
Speaking after bilateral engagements with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Christodoulides said one of the major outcomes of the visit was the establishment of a joint task force focused on infrastructure, shipping and economic cooperation.
“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,” the Cypriot President said.
He added that the newly-created task force would accelerate collaboration in sectors considered vital for long-term bilateral growth and connectivity between India and Europe.
The visit comes less than a year after Prime Minister Modi’s landmark trip to Cyprus in June 2025 — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades which both sides had described as a turning point in bilateral relations.
Officials from both countries said discussions in New Delhi focused on trade expansion, maritime security, digital innovation, artificial intelligence, fintech, education, mobility, investment and regional connectivity initiatives. Several agreements and memoranda of understanding were also expected to be signed during the visit.
Cyprus has increasingly positioned itself as a strategic gateway for India into Europe, particularly as New Delhi pushes forward the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a proposed trade and connectivity route linking India with Europe through the Middle East.
Christodoulides, who arrived in India on a four-day state visit, was welcomed in New Delhi with ceremonial honours. His delegation includes senior ministers, officials and business leaders from Cyprus.
The Cypriot President earlier held meetings in Mumbai aimed at boosting investment and business cooperation before travelling to the Indian capital for political and strategic discussions.
India and Cyprus are set to mark 65 years of diplomatic relations next year, with both nations signalling plans to further strengthen cooperation in trade, connectivity, defence and multilateral engagement.