India and Cyprus upgraded their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership following the state visit of President Nikos Christodoulides to India and talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.
According to the Joint Declaration issued after the meetings, the two countries agreed to move into a new phase focused on practical results and implementation of shared goals.
The visit resulted in 11 deliverables, including the Joint Declaration, five Memoranda of Understanding and one Technical Arrangement covering diplomacy, defence and security, transport and connectivity, search and rescue, education and culture.
Strategic partnership announced
The Joint Declaration stated that following Modi’s visit to Cyprus in June 2025, which laid the foundations for closer cooperation, India-Cyprus ties are now entering a more implementation-oriented phase.
“The leaders agreed to elevate the bilateral Comprehensive Partnership to a Strategic Partnership,” the declaration said.
Both leaders reaffirmed the close and reliable partnership between the two countries, based on shared democratic values, the rule of law and mutual respect.
The two sides also agreed to mark the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027 through a series of special events.
Support for Cyprus issue
India reiterated its strong support for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of Cyprus.
The two countries also expressed commitment to resuming negotiations for a comprehensive and sustainable Cyprus settlement based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality, in line with United Nations resolutions.
The declaration highlighted support for the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), with President Christodoulides expressing appreciation for India’s contribution to the mission.
UN Security Council reform
The two leaders underlined the urgent need for reform of the United Nations Security Council.
Cyprus reaffirmed its support for India’s permanent membership in a reformed Security Council, while both countries agreed to continue supporting each other’s candidacies in international organisations.
Condemnation of terrorism
President Christodoulides and Prime Minister Modi strongly condemned terrorism in all forms, including cross-border terrorism.
Cyprus expressed solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism, while both leaders condemned the terrorist attacks that took place in India during 2025.
They also called for stronger international cooperation to combat terrorism under international law.
Trade, IMEC and EU cooperation
The Joint Declaration also highlighted growing cooperation in trade, shipping and investment following the Cyprus–India Business Forum in Mumbai, recognising Cyprus as a gateway to the European Union.
The two sides agreed to begin negotiations on a Social Security Agreement and discussed opportunities to expand tourism flows between the two countries.
As Cyprus prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2026, the visit also carried a European dimension.
The leaders welcomed the conclusion of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement and backed the India–EU Strategic Agenda 2030 aimed at deepening cooperation.
They also highlighted the strategic importance of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) in strengthening trade and connectivity between India, the Middle East and Europe.
Series of cooperation agreements signed
Five memoranda and one technical arrangement were signed during the visit.
The agreements include:
- Establishment of a Joint Working Group on counterterrorism
- Cooperation between diplomatic academies
- Innovation and technology cooperation
- Collaboration in higher education and research
- Cultural cooperation for 2026–2030
- Technical arrangements on Search and Rescue coordination
The two countries also agreed on a defence cooperation roadmap for 2026–2031, the launch of a cybersecurity dialogue and a consular dialogue.
Cyprus will also join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and expressed interest in joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
India additionally announced a donation of its BHISM emergency medical equipment system to Cyprus.
The two sides also agreed to designate 18 May 2026 as the first India-Cyprus Space Day.
Also read: Modi–Christodoulides: Strategic upgrade in India–Cyprus relations
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