“This landmark visit underscores the enduring friendship and trusted partnership between our two countries. In his remarks to the media, Prime Minister Modi spoke about the strategic direction of the India-Cyprus partnership. This partnership also holds significance in the broader context of the India-EU strategic partnership and India’s growing engagement with the Mediterranean region,” said Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) as the PM concluded his Nicosia visit.

Several agreements were signed in June between the two countries, reaffirming their shared commitment to deepen bilateral ties and strengthen India’s engagement with the Mediterranean region and the European Union. Earlier, Christodoulides conferred upon Prime Minister Modi the country’s honour – the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III – at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia.

The award marks the 23rd international recognition bestowed on PM Modi by a foreign country. Underlining his unmatched stature, several analysts reckoned that no Prime Minister of India has ever had such a profound global impact as a global statesman.

PM Modi was welcomed at the palace by Christodoulides while a military band paid tribute. The National Anthems were played and then the Prime Minister of India laid a wreath at the statue of Archbishop Makarios III. A private meeting between the two leaders followed.