PM Modi Sees Tourism Potential In Cyprus As 'Boycott Turkey' Sentiment Grows After Op Sindoor
Not just tourism, the two leaders also explored ways to boost connectivity between the two nations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held talks with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and emphasized that there is 'rich potential" in the tourism sector.
The Prime Minister's remark carries significance as Cyprus is a neighbour of Turkey, which supported Pakistan during India's Operation Sindoor and reportedly provided arms and ammunition to the cash-strapped nation. In response, scores of Indians on social media have called for a boycott of Turkey, a country that receives thousands of Indian tourists every year.
'We also discussed how to deepen cultural linkages. Yoga and Ayurveda are gaining popularity in Cyprus, which is gladdening to see. Tourism is another area where there is rich potential. We also deliberated on how to improve connectivity," PM Modi wrote in a post on X after the meeting.
President Nikos Christodoulides and I held wide-ranging talks, covering the full range of India-Cyprus relations. It's widely known that bilateral ties between our nations are time-tested. Today, we talked about cooperation in areas like defence, security, trade, technology,… pic.twitter.com/LmoOIZVjw9 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 16, 2025
Beyond tourism, the two leaders also explored ways to boost connectivity, knowledge and innovation linkages between the two nations.
PM Modi also thanked Christodoulides for Cyprus' strong condemnation of the barbaric terrorist attack in Pahalgam and the solidarity and support extended to India in its fight against terrorism. This underlines the strong commitment of both countries to counter-terrorism.
The two leaders reaffirmed the shared values that underpin India-Cyprus relations. They reiterated support for respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other, read a statement from the Indian Prime Minister's Office.
PM Modi's Cyprus Visit
PM Modi arrived in Cyprus on the first leg of his three-nation tour. After Cyprus, he is scheduled to visit Canada for the G7 summit, followed by a trip to Croatia.
During his visit, PM Modi was honoured with the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, the highest civilian award in Cyprus.
'Humbled to receive the 'Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III' of Cyprus. I dedicate it to the friendship between our nations," the Prime Minister said after accepting the honour.
The Order of Makarios III, named after Cyprus's first President Archbishop Makarios III, is the nation's most prestigious knighthood.
Dedicating the award to the 1.4 billion people of India, Modi said it symbolised the enduring trust and friendship between India and Cyprus.
'I am confident that in the times ahead, our vibrant partnership will reach new heights. Together, we will not only advance the progress of our nations but also contribute to building a peaceful and secure world," he added.
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