India’s support for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of Cyprus remains steadfast, Indian High Commissioner to Cyprus Manish said on Monday evening, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
Speaking at a Diwali celebration at the Presidential Palace, in the presence of President Nikos Christodoulides Manish said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus in June 2025 and President Christodoulides’ visit to India in May 2026 had given renewed momentum to bilateral relations.
He noted that the strategic partnership offers opportunities in trade, investment, innovation and defence, with defence and security emerging as a key pillar of cooperation under the roadmap for 2026-2031.
On maritime cooperation, he said that the first meeting of the Joint Committee in the sector took place in September, while Cyprus’ Deputy Minister of Shipping is expected to lead a delegation to India later in November. He also referred to cooperation between Eurobank and NPCI International on digital payments, the prospects of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
Manish thanked Cyprus’ Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Larnaca and the rescue services for saving all ten crew members, including nine Indian nationals, from the sinking vessel AS Dream off the coast of Cyprus on October 30. He also noted that India and Cyprus will mark 65 years of diplomatic relations on February 10, 2027, expressing hope for further cooperation between the two countries.
Thanking President Christodoulides and the First Lady for hosting the Festival of Lights at the Presidential Palace, Manish described the occasion as a deeply moving gesture for the Indian community in Cyprus and a generous expression of friendship. Referring to Diwali’s message of light, hope and goodness, he stressed that the partnership between the two countries finds its deepest meaning in the lives it touches.