Cyprus – Country No One Noticed… Until Now & suddenly it Matters
Let’s be real—most of us never even thought about Cyprus. It’s not on the regular travel list, it’s not a cricket-playing Nation nor anything we have heard of it, and we don’t hear much about it in the news. And i Bet even 80% of Indians won’t Know it exists.
But suddenly, everyone’s talking about Cyprus. Why? Because Prime Minister Narendra Modi just made a surprise diplomatic move by visiting this tiny Mediterranean country.
And no, it’s not a random trip.
There’s a smart reason behind this move. Let’s break it down in simple language.
Where Even Is Cyprus?
First, let’s understand the basics.
Cyprus is a small island country in the Mediterranean Sea, near Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. It’s part of the European Union (EU) and has strong historical ties to both Europe and Asia.
Now here’s the interesting part — Cyprus is divided into two parts:
- Greek Cypriot South (recognized internationally)
- Turkish Cypriot North (recognized only by Turkey)
This division has been a sensitive topic globally for years.
Why Did Modi Visit Cyprus?
When Modi visits a country, especially one that’s low on the global radar, it means something strategic is happening. Here’s why Cyprus matters:
- Boosting India-EU Relations
Cyprus is a member of the EU, and building ties with Cyprus can open more diplomatic doors in Europe.
It’s like having a friend in the EU’s inner circle. - Support in Global Forums
Cyprus has always backed India in the UN, NSG, and FATF. Having allies in such places strengthens India’s international position. - Checking China’s Influence
China has been building influence in smaller countries. India making connections with places like Cyprus is a smart counter move in this diplomatic chess game. - Business & Investment Links
Cyprus has a strong finance and real estate sector. It can be a potential investment hub for Indian businesses wanting a base in Europe. - Indian Diaspora Support
Many Indians live and work in Cyprus. Modi’s visit sends a message that India cares for its people abroad, no matter where they are.
Why Is Cyprus Important Geopolitically?
Don’t be fooled by its size. Cyprus is tiny, but its location is very powerful:
- It sits between Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a strategic point for trade and defense.
- The country has oil and gas interests in the Eastern Mediterranean.
- Russia, the US, China, and the EU have all shown interest in Cyprus in recent years.
Basically, Cyprus is like a VIP seat in global politics—quiet but crucial.
Smart Diplomacy & India’s Global Push
Modi’s visit to Cyprus shows one thing:
India is playing a bigger global role than ever before.
Rather than focusing only on large countries, India is now building relationships with smaller but powerful nations that can offer votes, voice, and value in international politics.
Just like India strengthened ties with African and Latin American nations in recent years, Cyprus is now a part of this growing circle.
A Hidden Signal to Turkey?
While Modi’s visit to Cyprus was largely about strengthening India-EU ties and diplomacy, it also carries a subtle but strong message to Turkey.
Turkey has openly supported Pakistan on the Kashmir issue and criticized India at global platforms. In response, India has been quietly building stronger ties with Turkey’s regional rivals — including Greece, Armenia, and now Cyprus.
So, this Cyprus visit?
It’s not just about trade or friendship — it’s also a smart diplomatic move in the larger India-Turkey-Pakistan triangle.
Cyprus might be small, but in global diplomacy, size doesn’t always matter.
Modi’s visit made people across India and the world ask—why Cyprus? And now we know:
It’s about strategy, influence, and smart partnerships.
This wasn’t just a trip. It was a move on the global chessboard as we awaits the World Leadership Race amid rising Global Tension.
By Dhruv Kaushal | June 18, 2025
