Will PM Modi Make a Stop in Cyprus Before the G7 Summit? Here's What We Know!

Modi's Potential Cyprus Stopover

Nicosia/New Delhi: In a notable move reflecting India's expanding diplomatic ties in the Mediterranean, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to make a brief stop in Cyprus while traveling to Canada for the G7 Summit, as per sources on Monday.

The G7 Summit is set to take place in Alberta from June 15-17, and Cyprus is being considered as a potential refueling stop, according to high-ranking officials. During this short visit, PM Modi may also engage in bilateral talks with Cyprus's leadership.

The region is currently facing tensions, with Greece and Cyprus criticizing Turkey's 'provocative actions' and accusing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of expansionist policies that have raised concerns among various nations.

Turkey has faced backlash for its oil and gas exploration activities in Greece's territorial waters and drilling in Cyprus's maritime zones.

Over the last decade, India-Cyprus relations have strengthened under PM Modi, who has emphasized the shared historical legacies of both nations. India has consistently supported a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation for Cyprus, in line with UN Resolutions.

PM Modi highlighted the historical ties during the State Visit of Cyprus's President to India in April 2017, recalling India's support for Cyprus's sovereignty and territorial integrity since 1974. He noted that India has contributed personnel to the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, with three Indian commanders serving in this role.

Nicosia shares New Delhi's goal of reforming the United Nations and has supported India's bid for a permanent seat on an expanded UN Security Council.

During his visit to Nicosia in December 2022, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar indicated that India would increase its presence in the Mediterranean, with Cyprus playing a pivotal role in this strategy.

After signing three key bilateral agreements, including a Memorandum of Understanding on defense cooperation, Jaishankar identified seven areas for collaboration, such as finance, tourism, and Mediterranean projects.

He remarked on the growing interest in the Mediterranean region and the strengthening of ties with both northern and southern Mediterranean countries, emphasizing that Cyprus would be a cornerstone of India's future endeavors.

Jaishankar also mentioned the potential for joint projects in third countries, possibly in Africa or other regions where both nations have historical connections.