India and Cyprus Forge a Stronger Strategic Alliance with a New Joint Action Plan

India and Cyprus have taken a major step forward in their long-standing diplomatic relationship, unveiling a new Joint Action Plan (2025–2029) aimed at deepening cooperation across multiple sectors. During a meeting in New Delhi, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar described the India–Cyprus relationship as “trusted and time-tested,” underlining a bond that has remained steadfast for over six decades.

This renewed framework sets a clear agenda to enhance collaboration in trade, investment, technology, education, culture, and maritime affairs. It also reaffirms both nations’ shared democratic values and mutual respect for sovereignty — principles that have shaped their friendship since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1962.

India backs Cyprus on sovereignty and unity at bilateral talks | Firstpost

Cyprus’s Role as EU Chair and India’s Strategic Support

A significant aspect of the dialogue was Cyprus’s forthcoming assumption of the European Union Council Presidency in 2026. India expressed strong confidence in Cyprus’s ability to guide EU deliberations effectively and reinforce the India–EU partnership.

Both sides highlighted the importance of enhancing connectivity between Europe and Asia, positioning Cyprus as a bridge between the two continents. The cooperation comes at a time when India is expanding its outreach to the Mediterranean and the broader European region — a strategy aligned with its ambition to become a global hub for commerce, technology, and diplomacy.

Expanding Trade and Economic Ties

The Joint Action Plan 2025–29 includes a roadmap for advancing economic relations. Discussions centered around improving bilateral trade, attracting investment, and creating joint ventures in emerging sectors such as renewable energy, digital innovation, pharmaceuticals, and shipping.

Cyprus, as a member of the European Union, reaffirmed its support for the India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, which India hopes to conclude by the end of 2025. This support positions Cyprus as an essential partner in India’s strategy to strengthen its trade links with Europe and diversify supply chains in a changing global economy.

Security, Maritime, and Digital Cooperation

Beyond economic collaboration, both nations agreed to enhance cooperation in security, maritime, and digital domains. India and Cyprus share a strategic interest in ensuring peace and stability in the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific regions.

The two ministers also discussed joint initiatives on cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and maritime safety — areas that are becoming increasingly vital in the face of evolving global challenges. The commitment to deepen cooperation in these sectors reflects a shared vision of a secure and interconnected world.

India’s Firm Support for Cyprus’s Sovereignty

Reaffirming its consistent diplomatic stance, India reiterated its unwavering support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Cyprus. Dr. Jaishankar emphasized that India continues to back a peaceful, negotiated settlement of the Cyprus issue, based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, in line with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

This reassurance reflects India’s principled foreign policy — one that values international law, dialogue, and peaceful resolution of conflicts.

A Gateway for Global Connectivity

The India–Cyprus relationship also holds significance in the broader geopolitical landscape. Cyprus’s strategic location in the eastern Mediterranean positions it as a potential hub for the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which aims to link India with Europe through an integrated network of ports, railways, and digital infrastructure.

For India, strengthening ties with Cyprus opens doors to new trade routes, digital cooperation, and energy partnerships across Europe and the Mediterranean. For Cyprus, engagement with India — one of the fastest-growing major economies — enhances its global outreach and strengthens its influence within the EU and Indo-Pacific frameworks.

The MGMM Outlook

India and Cyprus have entered a new era of collaboration through their Joint Action Plan (2025–2029), reflecting a partnership founded on mutual trust and democratic values. This strengthened relationship, described by Dr. S. Jaishankar as “trusted and time-tested,” expands cooperation across trade, technology, culture, and maritime sectors. As Cyprus prepares to assume the EU Council Presidency in 2026, India’s support underscores the deep diplomatic confidence between the two nations. The partnership not only reinforces shared principles of sovereignty and peace but also places Cyprus as a crucial bridge connecting Europe and Asia — a strategic role in India’s expanding global vision.

From an Indian perspective, this alliance holds immense promise in advancing economic and digital linkages, enhancing maritime safety, and promoting sustainable trade routes such as the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). With joint interests in renewable energy, digital innovation, and security cooperation, both nations are aligning toward a future of resilient growth and global influence. This partnership goes beyond diplomacy — it represents India’s broader commitment to fostering regional stability, economic integration, and global cooperation through trusted, values-driven alliances.

(Sources: Firstpost, The Tribune, Reuters)