India and Cyprus Set Up Joint Counter-Terror Force, Ink Deals on Education and Culture

India and Cyprus on Friday elevated their bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership and agreed to strengthen cooperation across security, economic, and cultural domains, including the establishment of a joint framework to enhance collaboration on counter-terrorism and infrastructure development. The announcement came after delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides.

Both leaders underlined the historical strength of the relationship and expressed intent to expand cooperation in areas such as shipping, investment, education, and digital infrastructure. The upgraded partnership marks a significant step in deepening India’s engagement with European partners in the Mediterranean region. A key outcome of the talks was the decision to set up a joint task force aimed at boosting cooperation in strategic sectors, including infrastructure development and maritime shipping.

The leaders also agreed to expand collaboration in emerging areas such as fintech, research, and digital public infrastructure, reflecting a broader push toward technology-driven economic engagement between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi noted that investment flows from Cyprus to India have nearly doubled over the past decade, describing the relationship as one that has consistently strengthened over time.

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He said the new Strategic Partnership would add “new ambition and momentum” to bilateral ties, particularly in the context of ongoing discussions around the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement, which both sides expect will further accelerate trade and investment opportunities. President Christodoulides reiterated Cyprus’s support for India’s aspiration for a permanent seat in a reformed United Nations Security Council, stating that global governance structures must reflect contemporary realities.

He also expressed gratitude for India’s support on the issue of Cyprus reunification. Both sides further agreed to advance cooperation through multiple Memorandums of Understanding covering education, cultural exchange, migration, mobility, and social security arrangements aimed at facilitating smoother movement of professionals between the two countries.

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