By SCALE UB news team : 17/06/2025
News summary:
During his first visit to Cyprus in over two decades, PM Modi voiced full support for Cyprus in its longstanding dispute with Türkiye over territorial waters and Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus. He emphasized peaceful dialogue, highlighted strategic security and maritime collaboration, and signaled India’s alignment with EU partners. The move sends a strong diplomatic message to Ankara amid Turkey’s growing ties with Pakistan. navbharattimes.indiatimes.com+15apnews.com+15m.economictimes.com+15
Detail news:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reinforced India’s firm backing for Cyprus in its maritime and territorial dispute with Türkiye, declaring that “this isn’t the era of war” during a joint press conference with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides in Nicosia. The statement comes amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Support for Cyprus’ Sovereignty
Modi emphasized India’s unwavering support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity of the Republic of Cyprus—resonating through the backdrop of Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus. This marks a significant strategic pivot as India publicly aligns with EU positions against Turkish assertiveness. moneycontrol.com
Security & Strategic Cooperation
In a joint declaration, India and Cyprus committed to deepening defense, maritime, and cybersecurity cooperation. Initiatives include enhanced naval visits, joint training exercises, and real-time intelligence sharing to combat terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling. Cyprus was described as a “gateway to Europe,” vital to the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). youtube.com+9apnews.com+9timesofindia.indiatimes.com+9
A Diplomatic Message to Türkiye
Analysts view Modi’s visit as a tactical signal to Türkiye, which recently supported Pakistan during “Operation Sindoor.” It underscores India’s intent to counter Ankara’s regional ambitions and assert its strategic Indo-European outreach. Modi’s stopover in the UN-monitored Green Line area also underscores solidarity with Nicosia. businesstoday.in+9indianexpress.com+9timesofindia.indiatimes.com+9
Historic Recognition & Timeline
Modi became the first Indian PM in 23 years to visit Cyprus, receiving the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III—Cyprus’s highest civilian honour—becoming the first since Vajpayee (2002) and Indira Gandhi (1982). Modi described the award as belonging to all 1.4 billion Indians. moneycontrol.com+6en.wikipedia.org+6opindia.com+6
