‘This Is Not An Era Of War’: PM Modi In Cyprus Bats For Dialogue Amid Conflicts In West Asia, Europe
During his historic Cyprus visit, PM Modi expressed concern over conflicts in West Asia and Europe, advocating for peace and diplomacy. He discussed strengthening bilateral ties in trade, defense, and security.
During his official visit to Cyprus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, voiced mutual concern over escalating conflicts in West Asia and Europe. In a joint press briefing held after extensive bilateral discussions on Monday, both leaders underscored the importance of peace and diplomacy in resolving current global tensions.
“We both expressed concern over the conflicts going on in West Asia and Europe. Their negative impact is not just limited to those regions. We both consider that this is not an era of war. Resolution through dialogue and restoration of stability is the call of humanity,” Prime Minister Modi said during the media interaction.
#WATCH | In Cyprus, PM Modi says, "We expressed worry over the ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Europe. We believe this is not an era of war." pic.twitter.com/7JbYbQ39wY
— ANI (@ANI) June 16, 2025
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Cyprus on Sunday, marking the first visit by an Indian premier to the country in more than two decades. On Monday, he was welcomed with ceremonial honours at the Presidential Palace, ahead of his talks with President Christodoulides.
Modi led a high-level delegation that included External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. The two leaders held comprehensive discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, with a particular focus on trade, investment, and strategic cooperation. “This visit will add significant momentum to India-Cyprus relations, especially in areas like trade, investment and more,” Modi posted on X shortly after landing.
The two leaders expressed concern over regional and global tensions, reaffirming their shared values of democracy, cooperation, and respect for international law.
“This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over two decades, and it marks a golden opportunity to write a new chapter in our bilateral relations,” said PM Modi, adding, “There are many similarities between Cyprus’s Vision 2035 and India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Therefore, we will work together to shape our shared future. To provide strategic direction to our partnership, we will formulate a concrete roadmap for the next five years.”
PM Modi On Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Defence, Security, Connectivity
Modi highlighted that both nations value a relationship built on trust, mutual respect, and adherence to democratic principles. “We value our relationship with Cyprus. Our partnership is founded on shared values such as democracy and the rule of law. The friendship between India and Cyprus is not shaped by circumstances, nor is it confined by borders,” he said.
In terms of security cooperation, Modi announced a renewed focus on the defence industry under the bilateral defence cooperation programme. “To further strengthen defence and cooperation, emphasis will be placed on the defense industry under the bilateral defense cooperation program. We are deeply grateful for Cyprus’ continued support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism. To prevent terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling, our agencies will establish a mechanism for real-time information exchange,” he said.
The Prime Minister also spoke of expanding cooperation in cyber and maritime security and enhancing tourism ties, including efforts to establish direct air connectivity. “Cyprus is a tourist destination for Indians, efforts will be made for direct air connectivity between two sides,” he said. He also expressed delight over the growing popularity of yoga in Cyprus.
PM Modi receives Cyprus’ highest civilian honour, invites President Christodoulides to visit India
Upon arrival, Prime Minister Modi received Cyprus’ highest civilian honour, which he dedicated to the Indian people. “Since the moment I set foot on this land, the affection and warmth shown by the people have deeply touched my heart. A short while ago, I was honoured with Cyprus’ highest civilian award. This honour is not mine alone; it belongs to 1.4 billion Indians. It stands as a symbol of the strong and lasting friendship between India and Cyprus,” he remarked.
PM Modi also extended a formal invitation to President Christodoulides to visit India.
The Cypriot President echoed Modi’s sentiments, describing the bilateral relationship as historic and rooted in mutual respect. “We discussed expanding our bilateral relations and synergy over various areas — we want to work on defence cooperation, crisis management, tourism, innovation and Artificial Intelligence. We agreed to work together so that we can produce concrete results,” said President Christodoulides.
He further added, “The relationship between Cyprus and India is rooted in our shared history and common values. We both believe in peace, dialogue, cooperation, democracy, and respect for international law. The two nations share a clear strategic vision, which is grounded in a commitment to the rule of law, including the law of the sea, and to upholding international norms without exception.”
PM Modi Receives Cyprus’ Highest Civilian Honour, Invites President To Visit India
In a moment of solidarity, President Christodoulides extended his sympathies to India following the recent Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. “Prime Minister, the people of Cyprus stand in solidarity with you following the recent Air India plane crash. We stand with you in this difficult time,” he said.
Both leaders also discussed broader regional issues, including the Cyprus-Turkiye dispute and the island nation’s desire for reunification, as well as India-EU relations and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
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