How is Cyprus Welcoming India with 'Vande Mataram' During PM Modi's Visit?

New Delhi, June 16 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Cyprus on Sunday, marking a significant milestone as this is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Mediterranean island in over 20 years.

Upon arrival at Larnaca International Airport, he was welcomed with ceremonial honours by President Nikos Christodoulides, signaling a revitalization of Indo-Cypriot ties. Both nations expressed a commitment to enhance collaboration in sectors such as trade, technology, education, and cultural exchanges.

During his outreach to the Indian community in Cyprus, PM Modi was greeted with enthusiastic chants of “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, reflecting the deep emotional connection surrounding this visit.

One participant held a yellow sign that read, “Jai Hind, Operation Sindoor, Justice is Served,” in reference to India's recent counterterrorism efforts.

As India aims to broaden its global influence, PM Modi's stop in Cyprus, part of a three-nation tour before heading to the G7 Summit in Canada, underscores the strategic significance of nurturing longstanding relationships while exploring new avenues for collaboration.

Cyprus, in return, reiterated its dedication to a partnership that “knows no limits.”

PM Modi shared a video of this significant moment on his official X account.

This visit comes at a crucial juncture, as Cyprus is set to assume the presidency of the European Union Council in early 2026.

His presence highlights India's ambition to strengthen its ties with the Mediterranean region and the European Union.

In his remarks, PM Modi expressed appreciation for the warm reception and underscored the shared democratic ideals and historical connections between the two nations.

During his two-day visit, PM Modi plans to engage in bilateral discussions with President Christodoulides, attend a business roundtable in Limassol, and be awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, Cyprus's highest civilian distinction.

The two leaders are expected to deliberate on expanding cooperation in fields such as renewable energy, digital innovation, infrastructure, and higher education.

Cyprus's recent initiative to open a Eurobank representative office in Mumbai is viewed as a step towards establishing itself as a financial conduit between Europe and South Asia.

The visit also carries geopolitical implications.

Cyprus has consistently supported India's position on global matters, including its condemnation of cross-border terrorism.

In contrast to Turkey's recent criticism of India's domestic policies, Cyprus has emerged as a trustworthy ally, championing India's goals on platforms like the United Nations.

Local media have celebrated this visit as a historic moment in bilateral diplomacy, underscoring its symbolic and strategic significance.

As PM Modi prepares to head to the G7 Summit in Canada, commentators in Cyprus have characterized this visit as a turning point for Mediterranean-Asian relations.

After Cyprus, PM Modi will proceed to Kananaskis, Canada, to attend the G7 Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Mark Carney.

This summit will serve as a platform for discussing pressing global challenges and the priorities of the Global South.

PM Modi has also expressed his intention to engage with leaders from partner nations.

On June 18, he will visit Croatia for discussions with President Zoran Milanovic and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic.

Both countries share centuries-old cultural bonds.

“This first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia will pave the way for new opportunities in bilateral cooperation across areas of mutual interest. This three-nation tour also serves as an opportunity to express gratitude to partner nations for their unwavering support to India in our fight against cross-border terrorism, and to promote global understanding on addressing terrorism in all its forms,” PM Modi remarked before embarking on this historic three-day journey.