Cyprus is beginning to reap the benefits of an upgraded relationship with India, as evidenced by growing Indian business interest in using the island as a strategic gateway to the European market. In a recent address at the 18th InBusiness Awards 2026 gala dinner, President Nikos Christodoulides highlighted this momentum, which was set in motion by last year’s visit from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Investments And Expanding Market Access

The president noted that several Indian enterprises have already chosen Cyprus as their hub for accessing a European market comprising 450 million citizens. He attributed this trend to Cyprus’s reputation as a stable, reliable, and strategically positioned entry point into the European Union. This development has reinforced the island nation’s appeal for investors looking for both geographical and economic advantages.

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A Strategic Mission With A Multifaceted Agenda

Looking ahead, President Christodoulides announced an upcoming trade mission to Mumbai and New Delhi. This initiative is designed to foster new partnerships across key sectors, including technology, innovation, education, energy, and tourism. The mission will carry a clear political, economic, and developmental orientation, aligning Cyprus’s broader foreign policy with its domestic economic strategy to expand the country’s productive base.

Aligning Foreign And Domestic Policy For Economic Growth

The president described international cooperation as closely linked to both economic development and national security. He also stressed the importance of a strong private sector, noting that economic growth supports investment in healthcare, education, housing and broader social development.

Economic Performance And Structural Reforms

Despite ongoing regional instability and global uncertainty, Christodoulides said the Cypriot economy grew by 3% during the first quarter of 2026, marking the highest growth rate within the European Union. He added that Cyprus has also received successive upgrades from international credit rating agencies, while unemployment has fallen below 5%. At the same time, the government continues implementing education reforms aimed at aligning training and skills development more closely with labour market needs, including the expansion of technical high schools from two to four.

Investing In Human Capital

Christodoulides also referred to the government’s “Minds in Cyprus” initiative, which seeks to encourage Cypriot professionals abroad to return to the island. According to the president, the programme is already contributing to efforts to strengthen the country’s talent base and long-term competitiveness. He concluded by congratulating the InBusiness Awards recipients, describing their innovation and resilience as examples of Cyprus’ evolving economy.