High-Level Strategic Engagement
Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides led Cyprus’ delegation at the invitation-only EU-India Forum held in New Delhi on February 6–7. Accompanied by Heraklitos Iosifides, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Cyprus High Commission in India, and Nicolas Kyriakides, President of the Cyprus Forum, the delegation underscored Cyprus’ strategic intent within the evolving EU-India Innovation and Technology Partnership.
Transforming Political Commitments Into Operational Impact
Set against the backdrop of the 16th India–EU Summit and the landmark India–EU Free Trade Agreement, the forum acted as a bridge between high-level political commitments and practical cooperation. Hosted by India’s Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar and organized by the Ananta Centre in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, the event focused on priority areas such as maritime security, emerging technologies including semiconductors, cybersecurity and AI governance, as well as connectivity and sustainable energy.
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Forging Strategic Alliances Across Sectors
More than 200 senior policymakers, industry leaders, technocrats, and experts from India and all 27 EU Member States converged to explore sectors spanning Security and Defence, Technology, and Trade. Panel discussions emphasized the need for interoperability in AI ethics, the upgrading of digital infrastructure, and the establishment of enhanced trade architectures to foster mutual economic benefits. The sessions brought forward dynamic perspectives on safeguarding Europe’s competitive edge amid rapid technological advancements, with notable contributions from influential figures including Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and former Principal Scientific Adviser Professor K. Vijay Raghavan.
Pathways To An Operational Innovation Engine
Looking forward, Cyprus is poised to extend these strategic dialogues into tangible innovation and research initiatives. Chief Scientist Skourides, with plans to further his engagement during Deputy Minister Nicodemos Damianou’s forthcoming visit and at the India AI Impact Expo 2026 in New Delhi, aims to shape an operational India-Cyprus Innovation Engine. This initiative is designed to connect digital infrastructure, talent mobility, and investment pathways, providing a scalable platform for startups and high-tech ecosystems to prosper in Cyprus.
Consolidating A Position As A Regional Innovation Hub
Emphasizing Cyprus’ unique geographical and strategic positioning at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, Skourides articulated a clear mandate for the nation’s role as a trusted innovation gateway. With Cyprus’ upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union reinforcing its commitment to digital autonomy, sovereignty, and ethical AI, the country is set to convert strategic discussions into substantial economic growth, scientific excellence, and enhanced global collaboration.