President Droupadi Murmu received Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. She also hosted a banquet in his honour. Welcoming President Nikos Christodoulides and his delegation to India, President Murmu said, India and Cyprus share close relations based on trust and goodwill. She said bilateral relations have been elevated to the level of a Strategic Partnership, which reflects the growing maturity, depth and mutual trust in the India-Cyprus relationship.

 

President Murmu was happy to note that India-Cyprus relations are entering a new phase, with expanding cooperation in priority sectors such as defence and security, technology, financial services, connectivity, and maritime cooperation. She added that Cyprus continues to be among the major sources of Foreign Direct Investment in India. Companies from Cyprus are showing increasing interest in expanding trade and investment ties with India. India’s vast market, digital transformation, infrastructure, and manufacturing capabilities provide immense opportunities for Cypriot companies and investors.

 

President Murmu said, technology and innovation have emerged as some of the most forward-looking areas of the India-Cyprus relationship. She underlined that there is tremendous potential for cooperation in new sectors such as semiconductors, renewable energy, green energy, space, sustainable development and Artificial Intelligence.

 

President Murmu added that during its Presidency of the European Union Council, Cyprus can play an important role in further expanding economic cooperation between India and Europe, particularly after the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. She appreciated Cyprus’ support on important issues such as cross-border terrorism and reform of multilateral institutions. She reiterated India’s unwavering support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Cyprus.