India and Cyprus on Friday signed a series of agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation in counter-terrorism, diplomatic training, search-and-rescue operations, defence, innovation, and strategic affairs. The agreements are expected to deepen ties between the two countries and expand collaboration across several key sectors.
The MoUs were exchanged during a formal ceremony following bilateral talks between Narendra Modi and Nikos Christodoulides. The move is being seen as an important step toward building a stronger and more comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Cyprus.
One of the major agreements focuses on counter-terrorism cooperation, including the creation of a Joint Working Group to enhance coordination and information sharing. Both countries also agreed to cooperate in diplomatic training programmes and strengthen coordination in search-and-rescue operations.
Prime Minister Modi said the India-Cyprus relationship is evolving from simple cooperation to “co-creation,” highlighting opportunities for closer collaboration in maritime security, cybersecurity, defence exchanges, and regional connectivity projects. He also referred to the proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor as a major initiative for future economic and strategic integration.
President Christodoulides described the partnership as strategically important and globally relevant. He stressed the need for stronger cooperation in security, defence, technology, education, and economic development. He also reiterated Cyprus’ support for closer engagement between India and the European Union on major international and security-related issues.
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism and violent extremism in all forms. India and Cyprus called for stronger international cooperation to curb terror financing, eliminate safe havens for terrorists, and prevent cross-border terrorism. The two sides also agreed to enhance coordination in emergency response, maritime safety, and search-and-rescue operations in the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific regions.
The latest agreements build on the growing partnership between India and Cyprus in recent years, particularly in defence cooperation, cybersecurity, maritime engagement, diplomatic exchanges, and strategic dialogue.
