Modi's Cyprus Stop

Revitalising Mediterranean Partnerships

- Dr Kemal YILDIRIM

Introduction

One of the first nations to acknowledge Cyprus after its independence in 1960 was India. Both countries set the stage for a supportive and cooperative partnership as soon as diplomatic connections were formed. India's wider adherence to the principles of self-determination and noninterference in the domestic affairs of other nations was demonstrated by its recognition and support of Cyprus's independence.

Additionally, establishing diplomatic ties lays the groundwork for more extensive political and economic collaboration. The establishment of Cypriot representatives in India and Indian embassies and diplomatic posts in Cyprus marked the start of a strong and long-lasting collaboration.

With India as a permanent member of a larger UNSC, Cyprus reaffirmed its support for strengthening the representational nature of the UNSC's growth. Additionally, the two countries decided to work closely together and support one another at the UN.

Cyprus exported items worth 11.1 million to India and bought 64.5 million. Iron and steel were exchanged between the two nations. Cyprus is the eighth-largest foreign direct investment (FDI) investor in India, having invested a total of $8.328 billion between April 2000 and September 2015.

As a strategic message between the growing Turkey-Pakistan ties, Prime Minister Modi's first visit to Cyprus since Operation Sindoor can be conveyed, as the application approach of India's foreign policy towards the region with a subtle diplomatic sensitivity in which it can be identified with a broader strategic opening As it is known, Cyprus supported India after the April 22 terrorist incident and promised to raise the issue of cross-border terrorism at the EU level, indicating a growing harmony that now includes EU cooperation, trade and energy.