Prime Minister Modi’s recent Cyprus visit signals India’s growing ties with regional rivals of Turkey, especially amid strained relations between Ankara and Nicosia. Geostrategist Brahma Chellaney suggests the visit enhances India’s influence in the Mediterranean and underscores Cyprus’s pivotal role in upcoming economic corridors. Modi emphasized cooperation and signed agreements to boost economic relations between India and Cyprus.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Cyprus is being interpreted by geostrategist Brahma Chellaney as a possible indication of India’s growing ties with regional rivals of Turkey, particularly Nicosia. This viewpoint emerges amid two significant factors: Turkey’s longstanding support for Pakistan during the India-Pakistan tensions and the delicate relationship between Ankara and Nicosia.
Chellaney elaborated that Turkey might see Modi’s presence in Cyprus—an area known for its gas reserves—as an affirmation of India’s deepening relations with nations such as Greece, Armenia, and Egypt. He pointed out the contrast with Turkey, which has a strategic alliance with Pakistan, saying, “Cyprus has long stood by India, including backing its bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council.”
Moreover, he pointed out that Cyprus is poised to take on the EU Council presidency next year, placing it in a crucial position in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The geostrategist suggested that India’s involvement could bolster Cyprus’s significance in energy diplomacy, broaden New Delhi’s influence in the Mediterranean, and strengthen the opposition against Turkish expansionism.
During the visit, Modi referred to Cyprus as a “reliable partner,” emphasizing the enhancement of bilateral cooperation. His participation in a business roundtable alongside Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides marked a notable beginning to his three-nation tour, highlighting India’s interest in fostering economic ties with the island nation.
The Prime Minister reiterated the longstanding partnership with Cyprus and noted that it had been 23 years since an Indian leader had made such a visit, underscoring the economic importance of the India-Cyprus relationship. He also highlighted Cyprus as a prestigious tourist location, stressing India’s commitment to tourism development.
Interestingly, it should be noted that the flow of Indian tourists to Turkey experienced a decline following Ankara’s support for Pakistan. A movement arose on Indian social media calling for a boycott of Turkey as a destination, coupled with a boycott of Turkish goods. Alongside these developments, the Indian government revoked the security clearance for Turkish ground service provider Celebi, citing national security concerns.
Finally, Modi’s visit yielded some practical outcomes, with Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) being established between the National Payments Corporation of India and Eurobank of Cyprus to bring the Unified Payments Interface services to Cyprus. Additionally, agreements were made with the NSE International Exchange Gift City and the Cyprus Stock Exchange to facilitate cross-border financial transactions.
In summary, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Cyprus has been interpreted as a significant step in India’s diplomatic and economic strategies, especially against the backdrop of Turkey’s support for Pakistan. As Cyprus prepares to assume the EU Council presidency, this visit may enhance its role within the region and India’s influence in Mediterranean affairs. The signed agreements signify a commitment to strengthen economic ties between the two nations, potentially shaping the future of their bilateral relations.
Original Source: www.businesstoday.in
