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In a significant diplomatic development, India and Cyprus have agreed to formulate a strategic roadmap to deepen cooperation in defence, counterterrorism, and maritime security. The move comes as both nations seek to reinforce their security architectures amid growing geopolitical instability in the Eastern Mediterranean and South Asia.
During his landmark visit to Cyprus—the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades—PM Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides. The discussions culminated in a joint declaration outlining shared priorities in defence-industrial collaboration, cyber security, and counterterrorism coordination.
“India and Cyprus are committed to advancing a comprehensive strategic partnership. We will collaborate closely in defence production and emerging technologies while launching dedicated dialogues on cyber and maritime security,” PM Modi said at a joint press conference.
Defence Cooperation Takes Centre Stage
As part of the growing defence partnership, India has reportedly offered to supply long-range loitering munitions to Cyprus. These precision-strike weapons, capable of targeting high-value assets with minimal operator risk, are of strategic interest to Nicosia as it seeks to modernize its military in the face of persistent tensions with Turkey.
Cyprus, divided since the 1974 Turkish invasion, has consistently sought stronger security ties with democratic partners. The proposed defence deal aligns with New Delhi’s push to boost indigenous defence exports and deepen bilateral military-industrial cooperation.
The joint statement also noted plans to explore joint training exercises and real-time intelligence sharing to enhance operational interoperability.
Maritime and Cyber Security Cooperation
Recognizing their shared maritime interests and strategic geographies, both leaders announced a plan to strengthen naval ties. It includes more frequent port calls by Indian naval vessels and joint initiatives in maritime domain awareness—critical for securing key sea lanes and responding to regional crises.
On the cyber front, India and Cyprus agreed to initiate a structured dialogue focused on combating digital threats and safeguarding critical infrastructure. The partnership will encompass technology transfers, capacity-building, and joint research in cyber defence.
Firm Stand Against Terrorism
In a strongly worded joint statement, both nations condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Cyprus reiterated its unwavering support for India’s fight against cross-border terrorism, and both sides called for urgent global action to dismantle terror networks, block financial flows, and prosecute perpetrators.
They also condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, labelling them a “heinous assault on innocent civilians.” The leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to rejecting any justification for terrorism and urged global consensus on the long-pending Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations.
Strategic Outlook
Modi’s visit to Cyprus follows closely on the heels of India’s successful military response to cross-border hostilities with Pakistan under “Operation Sindoor.” The Cyprus stop signals India’s broader strategic aim to forge resilient security partnerships with countries confronting regional threats and seeking credible defence collaboration.
As India positions itself as a reliable defence partner and a proponent of multilateral reform, its ties with Cyprus are set to expand across multiple strategic domains—from defence exports and joint maritime operations to robust counterterrorism frameworks.
Huma Siddiqui
