How Modi 'thanked' Cyprus while giving message to Turkey, Pakistan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Cyprus on Sunday, June 15, marking his first foreign visit following Operation Sindoor. This three-nation tour will also encompass Canada, where he is scheduled to participate in the G7 Summit, as well as Croatia. His selection of Cyprus as the inaugural destination carries significant geopolitical implications, potentially conveying a message regarding Turkey's ongoing support for Pakistan.

The visit is taking place at the invitation of Cypriot President Nicos Christodoulides, with PM Modi accompanied by a delegation of approximately 100 officials.

The prime minister was awarded the highest honour of the country, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III.

It is noteworthy that this marks the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Cyprus in over twenty years; the previous visits were made by Indira Gandhi in 1982 and Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2002. Despite the historical connections between the two nations, such high-level interactions have been infrequent.

During his stay, Prime Minister Modi engaged in bilateral discussions with President Christodoulides in the capital city of Nicosia and addressed business leaders in the port city of Limassol. The following sections will elaborate on the significance of the visit, its strategic implications, diplomatic aspects, and economic considerations, as well as how it may be interpreted as a message directed towards Turkey.

History and strategy behind choice of Cyprus

The visit occurs in the context of an increasing alignment between Turkey and Pakistan. Turkey has consistently supported Pakistan regarding the Kashmir issue and has expressed its backing during recent escalations of military tension between India and Pakistan.

Conversely, Cyprus has taken a strong stance against terrorism. Following the terror attacks on April 22, Cyprus condemned the violence and announced its intention to bring the matter of cross-border terrorism by Pakistan to the attention of the EU. It has consistently endorsed India's stance on Kashmir.

Cyprus has its fair share of enduring tensions with Turkey, which are rooted in the events of 1974. After a coup supported by Greece aimed at uniting Cyprus with Greece, Turkey initiated a military invasion. Although the legitimate government in Nicosia was ultimately restored, Turkish forces have never completely withdrawn. The northeastern region of the island subsequently declared independence as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a state that is recognised solely by Turkey.

The strengthening of the Turkey-Pakistan alliance, combined with Cyprus's historical tensions with Turkey, renders PM Modi's visit a strategically significant action.

India vis-à-vis Cyprus, Turkey

The Ministry of External Affairs stated, "Cyprus has supported India on numerous international bodies and remains one of India’s dependable friends."

Cyprus endorses India's pursuit of a permanent position on the enlarged UN Security Council and expresses support for the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement within the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which are crucial platforms for India's global energy aspirations.

Conversely, Turkey has not only expressed its backing for Pakistan regarding Kashmir but has also been indirectly implicated in the recent conflicts. Following the Operation Sindoor conflict, it was reported that drones employed by Pakistan against India were of Turkish manufacture.

Prime Minister Modi said, "This three-nation tour is also an opportunity to thank partner countries for their steadfast support to India in our fight against cross-border terrorism, and to galvanise global understanding on tackling terrorism in all its forms and manifestations."

Economics, politics behind choice

Cyprus’s geographical position establishes it as a vital link within the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a strategic infrastructure initiative designed to improve trade connectivity between India and Europe via the Middle East. During his visit to Israel in early May, President Christodoulides referred to this.

Recently, Eurobank, one of the largest banks in Cyprus, declared its intention to establish a representative office in Mumbai. This initiative aims to position Cyprus as a gateway for Indian enterprises seeking to enter the EU, while simultaneously enhancing relationships between Europe, South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

With its favourable tax policies, strong financial services sector, and a well-established shipping industry, Cyprus provides Indian businesses with a practical entry point into European markets.

In his speech at the business roundtable in Limassol, Prime Minister Modi stressed India’s dedication to increasing its economic engagement with Cyprus. Focusing on the growing economic partnership, Prime Minister Modi pointed out that the Cyprus Stock Exchange and India’s National Stock Exchange have reached an agreement to collaborate in GIFT City, Gujarat.

Energy, natural gas

Cyprus plays a significant role in the exploration of natural gas in the Eastern Mediterranean, a region characterized by geopolitical tensions, particularly due to Turkey’s disputed drilling operations.

For India, strengthening ties with Cyprus could unveil new opportunities in energy collaboration, while also bolstering its presence in a strategically important area.

Cyprus in European Union

Cyprus is set to assume the rotating Presidency of the EU Council in 2026.

The prime minister's visit establishes a foundation for deeper cooperation on trade and security, while also utilising Cyprus’s forthcoming EU leadership role to advocate for advancements on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, which is aimed for completion by the end of 2025.