NEWS: India and Cyprus elevated their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership during Cyprus President visit to India.

Key Outcomes

•        Cyprusà Announced its decision to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative under the pillar focused on trade, connectivity and maritime transport.

•        1st ever India-Cyprus Space Day celebration announced on May 18, 2026.

•        Cyprus reiterated its support for India’s permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

•        Cyprusà initiated a “Friends of IMEC” group involving signatory and interested EU member states to advance connectivity, stability and economic cooperation across the region.

•        Adopted a roadmap for defence cooperation between 2026 and 2031 and signed an MoU on establishing a Joint Working Group (JWG) on Counter Terrorism.

•        India will gift a BHISM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita & Maitri) Cube to Cyprus as part of healthcare diplomacy.

India-Cyprus Relations

•        India and Cyprus established diplomatic relations in 1962.

•        Bilateral trade between the two countries was USD 140.47 Million for FY 2024.

•        Cyprusà Among the top 9 investors in India with cumulative investments of US$ 15.76 Billion during 2000 –2025.

•        There are around 15,500 Indians living and working in Cyprus.

Importance of Cyprus for India

•        Cyprus is located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africaà strategically important for trade, connectivity, and energy routes.

•        Cyprus has consistently supported India’s positions on issues such as terrorism, Kashmir, and reforms in the UNSC.

•        Cyprus acts as an important gateway for India’s trade and investment access to European markets.

•        Cyprus is a full member of the European Union and currently holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.