‘This honour belongs to 1.4 billion Indians’: Top quotes from PM Modi's Cyprus visit; strategic ties in focus

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Cyprus, addressed a joint briefing with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides on Monday.The visit is part of his three-nation tour, which also includes attending the G7 Summit in Canada on June 16–17 and a stop in Croatia.In his address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized strengthening bilateral trade ties between India and Cyprus through discussions on trade, technology, investment, and cultural cooperation.Key Takeaways from PM Modi's Visit to Cyprus:Concerns over conflicts in West Asia and Europe: Expressing concern about the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine war, PM Modi reiterated, “We expressed worry over the ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Europe.

We believe this is not an era of war.”Historic visit to Cyprus after over two decades: PM Modi remarked, “This is the visit of an Indian prime minister to Cyprus after a gap of more than two decades. And this is an opportunity to write a new chapter in mutual relations."The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the visit as a significant step in India’s long-standing and warm relationship with Cyprus.Cyprus’ support in combating cross-border terrorism: Addressing the global rise in terrorism, PM Modi said, “We are grateful for Cyprus' continued support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism.

To prevent terrorism, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling, a mechanism for real-time information exchange will be developed between our agencies.”PM Modi conferred with the 'Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III': Cyprus conferred its highest civilian honour - the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III - on PM Modi.Accepting the award, he said, “Since the moment I set foot on this land, the affection and warmth shown by the people have deeply touched my heart.

A short while ago, I was honoured with Cyprus' highest civilian award. This honour is not mine alone; it belongs to 1.4 billion Indians. It stands as a symbol of the strong and lasting friendship between India and Cyprus."‘Immense Potential for Growth’: PM Modi on bilateral ties with Cyprus: After attending a business roundtable with the President of Cyprus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X: “Boosting business linkages! President Nikos Christodoulides and I interacted with leading CEOs to add vigour to commercial ties between India and Cyprus.

Sectors like innovation, energy, technology, and more offer immense potential. I also spoke about India’s reform trajectory over the last decade.

”Strengthening cultural ties: Speaking on cultural ties between India and Cyprus, PM Modi added: “We also discussed ways to strengthen cultural connections. Yoga and Ayurveda are gaining popularity in Cyprus, which is pleasing to see. Tourism is another area with great potential. We also talked about how we can enhance people-to-people cohesion.”