The Flow Times
NICOSIA, CYPRUS – In a decisive diplomatic maneuver, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Cyprus has delivered a significant geopolitical setback to Turkey, signaling India's unwavering support for the island nation and its stance against Ankara's regional ambitions. The visit, part of a crucial three-nation tour, has brought Cyprus's long-standing division, a major Turkish geopolitical vulnerability, back into the international spotlight.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi (right) receives a warm welcome in Cyprus, engaging with officials to discuss the island's geopolitical landscape. (Image: Courtesy of The Flow Times)
A Diplomatic Offensive Against Ankara's Weakest Link
The core of India's strategic play lies in Cyprus, an island nation historically divided by Turkey's 1974 invasion. This division, which led to the self-proclaimed "North Cyprus" — recognized only by Ankara — represents Turkey's most vulnerable geopolitical aspect. PM Modi's visit to Nicosia, where he openly pledged full support to the Cypriot government, has undoubtedly rattled Ankara.
"Turkey must be quite nervous, seeing an important nation like India openly backing Cyprus," noted a senior analyst for Flow News, reflecting on the immediate implications of the visit. This move by New Delhi is widely seen as a direct response to Turkey's perceived hostile actions against India, including providing drones to Pakistan, which have been used against Indian civilians.
Historic Context: The Divided Island of Cyprus
Cyprus has been a flashpoint since Turkey's 1974 military intervention, which saw Turkish forces occupy 37% of the island's territory. This area was then declared "North Cyprus," intended to house the Muslim population, while the predominantly Christian population remained in the southern part. However, this division is not recognized by the United Nations or any other international body, maintaining the stance that there should be a single, united Cyprus.
For decades, Cyprus, as a member of the European Union, has effectively leveraged its position to block Turkey's long-sought EU membership, making the "Cyprus problem" a persistent geopolitical headache for Ankara. The Flow Times understands that PM Modi even visited the demarcation line in Cyprus, where he was briefed by Cypriot ministers on the historical division and Turkish occupation.
The controversial "North Cyprus" flag, displayed in the occupied territory, remains a symbol of an internationally unrecognized state, challenged by India's recent diplomatic stand. (Image: TFT Archive)
India's Unwavering Support for a United Cyprus
India has categorically reaffirmed its "One Cyprus" policy, aligning itself with the global community's view that the island should be united. The warmth of PM Modi's reception in Cyprus underscored the significance of India's support. Upon his arrival, he was welcomed by the Cypriot President, and an MP even touched his feet, a gesture of profound respect in Indian tradition that is increasingly gaining international recognition.
Furthermore, Cyprus bestowed its highest civilian honor, the Order of Makarios III, upon Prime Minister Modi, highlighting the deep importance Nicosia places on its relationship with New Delhi. This strong partnership is not merely symbolic; it has tangible geopolitical underpinnings.
The Geopolitical Chessboard: Why India is Acting Now
India's renewed interest in Cyprus is largely a direct consequence of Turkey's actions against India. Analysts at TFT have consistently highlighted Ankara's provision of "72 drones to Pakistan," despite knowing these would be "cowardly used against our unarmed civilians."
While India's advanced air defense systems have successfully countered these Turkish-supplied drones – a system many, including sources close to Flow News, believe to be "even better than Israel's," particularly given recent performances against missile attacks – the intent to harm India's population remains a diplomatic affront. This sentiment has even led to boycotts of Turkish products and personalities, with Bollywood actor Aamir Khan, who previously met with Erdogan, now reportedly supporting the boycott.
The BrahMos missile, a symbol of India's growing defense export capabilities, could be a game-changer if supplied to Cyprus. (Image: Defence News India)
Potential Future: Defense Ties and Broader Implications
Cyprus views India as a crucial strategic partner, not out of mere altruism but for concrete geopolitical reasons. The possibility of enhanced defense engagement, including the export of advanced Indian weaponry like the BrahMos missile, looms large. "If India were to export some BrahMos missiles to Cyprus, people in Northern Cyprus would start shaking," an analyst stated, highlighting that "Turkey or any other country currently lacks the missile defense system to stop a missile like BrahMos."
This potential defense cooperation, combined with India's continued diplomatic support at international forums like the UN, would significantly bolster Cyprus's position against Turkish aggression. The visit of a major world leader to Cyprus after a long time is set to elicit a strong reaction from Ankara, promising further shifts in the region's geopolitical dynamics.
Quick Quiz for Our Readers
To test your knowledge on the region, which city is the capital of Cyprus?
- Nicosia
- Athens
- Malta
- Trace
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