India–EU Convergence in Focus as Cyprus Marks Start of EU Council Presidency

Vivek Sharma, New Delhi, February 3, 2026: The High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus hosted a reception in New Delhi on Monday to mark the commencement of Cyprus’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The event, held at the Royal Ballroom of The Imperial Hotel, Janpath, was attended by senior government officials, diplomats, policymakers, and distinguished guests.

Union Minister of State for External Affairs Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus to India, H.E. Evagoras Vryonides, delivered the welcome address.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Vryonides expressed enthusiasm over Cyprus assuming the EU Council Presidency and outlined the key priorities of its term. He stated that Cyprus aims to promote an autonomous and outward-looking European Union, with a strong focus on economic growth, employment generation, defense cooperation, innovation, and strengthened transatlantic ties.

The High Commissioner also highlighted the deep-rooted relationship between India and Cyprus, tracing it back to their shared association with the Non-Aligned Movement. He noted that bilateral relations have gained fresh momentum following recent engagements between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Cypriot leadership. Emphasizing future cooperation, he pointed to sectors such as trade, tourism, defense, technology, and people-to-people exchanges.

Sharing details of upcoming engagements, Dr. Vryonides said several high-level visits from Cyprus to India are scheduled in the coming months. These include the Deputy Minister’s participation in the AI Summit, the Foreign Minister’s visit for the Raisina Dialogue, and the President of Cyprus’s official visit to India in May 2026.

In his address, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh congratulated Cyprus on assuming the EU Council Presidency and described the moment as significant for India–EU relations. Drawing parallels between Cyprus’s emphasis on “Autonomy” and India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, he underlined the growing convergence between India and the European Union.

Referring to the recent India–EU Summit, the Minister highlighted cooperation in digital transformation, clean and green energy, security and defense, resilient supply chains, and innovation. He also mentioned ongoing negotiations toward an India–EU Free Trade Agreement.

Describing the India–EU partnership as an “anchor of stability and a force for global good,” Shri Singh stressed the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges.

The reception concluded with informal interactions among diplomats and guests, reaffirming the strong diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties between India, Cyprus, and the European Union.

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