India and Cyprus expand maritime and defence cooperation

India and Cyprus are expanding their bilateral relations through enhanced cooperation in maritime and defence sectors. Following the first India–Cyprus Joint Maritime Committee (JMC) meeting held in Limassol on September 29, Indian High Commissioner Manish met with Cypriot Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis to discuss the outcomes of a recent government delegation visit.

The maritime discussions focused on investment opportunities, maritime education and training, the exchange of policy best practices, and cooperation within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). Both nations expressed interest in further engagement, including a potential visit to India by a Cypriot shipping and business delegation.

In parallel, discussions were held regarding the Roadmap for Bilateral Defence Cooperation 2026-31. High Commissioner Manish met with Spyros Miltiades, Diplomatic Advisor to the Cypriot Minister of Defence, to address training, capacity building, defence industry partnerships, maritime security, search and rescue, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.