Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Cyprus on Sunday for a two-day official visit, marking the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to the Mediterranean nation in over 20 years. He was received at the airport by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and warmly welcomed by a cheering Indian diaspora holding flags and singing patriotic songs.

Before departing New Delhi, PM Modi highlighted Cyprus as a vital partner. “Cyprus is a close friend and an important partner in the Mediterranean region and the EU. The visit provides an opportunity to build upon historical bonds and expand our ties in trade, investment, security, technology, and people-to-people exchanges,” he said.

Focus On India-Middle East-Europe Corridor

A major focus of the visit is on enhancing connectivity through the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), which aims to link India to Europe via the Middle East using sea and rail. Cyprus could play a key role in facilitating India’s entry into Europe through this route.

President Christodoulides said, “One of the objectives of our discussions is the connection of India with Europe through the region of the wider Middle East, and its entry into Europe through the Republic of Cyprus.

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Apart from bilateral talks, PM Modi is scheduled to address a business leaders’ forum in Limassol. The goal is to boost economic collaboration and position both countries as valuable trade partners. India is likely to showcase its investment potential while promoting Cyprus as a strategic access point to European markets.

Indian Diaspora Celebrates Modi’s Arrival

The Indian community in Cyprus came out in large numbers to greet PM Modi with traditional performances and enthusiastic chants. The celebratory mood reflected the strong cultural ties and emotional bond shared by the diaspora with their homeland.

After wrapping up his engagements in Cyprus, PM Modi will head to Kananaskis, Canada, to attend the G7 Summit at the invitation of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The summit will focus on global issues such as climate change, innovation, and peace-building.

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Following the summit, he will travel to the Republic of Croatia to meet President Zoran Milanović and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. This will also be a historic first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, aimed at opening new avenues of cooperation in technology, healthcare, and culture.