Why PM Modi's Cyprus Visit En Route To G7 Summit In Canada Is Strategically Significant
The Cyprus visit is a calculated effort to advance India's Mediterranean strategy by countering the Turkey-Pakistan alignment, sources said
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Cyprus, en route to the G7 Summit in Canada, represents a strategically significant move, top government sources told CNN-News18.
The Cyprus visit is a calculated effort to advance India's Mediterranean strategy by countering the Turkey-Pakistan alignment, they added. Cyprus's maritime connectivity and strategic location position it as a potential hub in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
With Cyprus set to hold the rotating presidency of the EU Council in 2026, PM Modi's visit—the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 23 years—paves the way for deeper India-EU collaboration during Cyprus's leadership term. This visit comes amid heightened Turkey-Pakistan solidarity, particularly following Turkey's support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.
Cyprus, engaged in territorial disputes with Turkey, naturally aligns with India to strengthen ties with nations opposing Turkish regional influence, said the sources. Cyprus consistently supports India's positions on Kashmir, cross-border terrorism, and UN Security Council reforms, reinforcing India's diplomatic stance in international forums, they added.
Cyprus is a key player in Eastern Mediterranean natural gas exploration, an area fraught with regional tensions due to Turkey's drilling activities. As India seeks to diversify its energy sources, potential partnerships in this sector are under discussion, with PM Modi's visit aiming to explore new dimensions.
Cyprus backs India's bids for multilateral groups like the NSG and UNSC and has endorsed the India-US Nuclear Deal. Stronger ties with Cyprus are likely to garner broader EU support for India's global initiatives.
Cyprus is also a significant source of foreign investment in India and maintains a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India. Discussions with Cypriot business leaders in Limassol will focus on enhancing commercial links.
Both nations aim to expand defence cooperation, particularly as Cyprus faces security challenges from Turkey. As PM Modi's first foreign trip following India's Operation Sindoor military action against Pakistan, this visit signals India's proactive outreach to consolidate international support, said sources.
The Cyprus visit precedes PM Modi's attendance at the G7 Summit in Canada, where India-Canada relations are currently strained. A robust European partnership provides India with diplomatic leverage ahead of this critical engagement.
First Published:
June 15, 2025, 06:30 IST
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