Modi Begins 3-Nation Tour With Eye on Trade, Battling Terrorism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday his three-nation tour of Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia will help expand ties in trade, investment, and security and galvanise global understanding on tackling all forms of terrorism.

- Rezaul H Laskar

NEW DELHI:

The visit is being closely followed as Modi is set to hold his first meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the margins of the G7 Summit during the second leg of the tour. The meeting has been described by the Indian side as an opportunity to reset relations with Canada after a long-running diplomatic row over the killing of a Khalistani separatist in 2023.

Modi arrived in Cyprus late on Sunday afternoon, becoming the first Indian premier to visit the Mediterranean country in 23 years. As a special gesture, Modi was received at the airport by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and foreign minister Constantinos Kombos.

"My gratitude to the President of Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides for the special gesture of welcoming me at the airport. This visit will add significant momentum to India-Cyprus relations, especially in areas like trade, investment, and more," Modi added.

The decision to travel to Cyprus on the way to Canada was influenced by Turkey's support for Pakistan during last month's clashes with India. Turkey recognises Northern Cyprus, comprising territories seized by Turkish forces in 1974, while India has maintained close ties with the Republic of Cyprus.

In a statement issued ahead of his departure from New Delhi, Modi described Cyprus as a close friend and important partner in the Mediterranean region and EU. He said: "The visit provides an opportunity to build upon the historical bonds and expand our ties in the areas of trade, investment, security, technology and promote people-to-people exchanges."

Modi is scheduled to hold talks with President Nikos Christodoulides in the capital Nicosia and address business leaders in Limassol.