Cyprus
Context: PM Modi's visit to Cyprus underscores strategic ties, signals to Turkiye, and reinforces support for India's stance on Kashmir and cross-border terrorism ahead of Cyprus’s 2026 EU Council Presidency.
Important Pointers:
Geography: The Republic of Cyprus is an island country in the Eastern Mediterranean and the third-largest and most populous island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Division of Cyprus: In 1974, Cyprus was divided into North and South after Turkey invaded in response to a Greece-backed military coup in Cyprus.
Strategic Importance of Cyprus:
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG): Cyprus is a member of the 48-member Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG); its support is crucial for India’s bid to join the NSG.
United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Reform: Cyprus has publicly supported India’s bid for a permanent seat in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
European Union (EU) Membership: Cyprus has been a member of the European Union (EU) since 2004 and is also part of the Eurozone (countries that use the euro currency).
Gateway to EU Markets: Being an EU member, Cyprus can serve as a strategic investment hub for Indian industries entering the European market.