Cyprus and India are working to strengthen their defence ties, focusing on cybersecurity, naval cooperation, and industry partnerships through a new bilateral roadmap.

Cyprus and India are pursuing closer defence cooperation, with recent discussions covering cybersecurity, emerging technologies, and naval partnerships. Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas met with Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in Nicosia on Tuesday to advance a bilateral roadmap for 2026 to 2031.

Naval and Industry Cooperation

The Indian delegation visited the Mari naval base on Monday, where they met with the commander of the Cyprus Naval Command, Commodore Nicolaos Luca. Discussions centered on maritime security, search and rescue coordination, joint training, and future port calls by Indian naval vessels. The delegation also toured the Cyprus Navy’s offshore patrol vessel, the Commodore Andreas Ioannides (P61). Beyond naval ties, the two nations are exploring synergies in their respective defence industries. These efforts follow a visit to India by Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides in May, which aimed to deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Diplomatic Context

During his visit, Secretary Singh paid respects at the Makedonitissa military cemetery in Nicosia, laying a wreath for servicemen who died in 1974. India maintains a longstanding connection to the island’s security through its participation in the United Nations peacekeeping force and supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus. Following his time in Cyprus, Secretary Singh is scheduled to travel to Greece for meetings with senior defence and military officials.