Cyprus: As a gesture of goodwill and cultural diplomacy, Prime Minister Modi presented handcrafted gifts to the Cypriot President and First Lady, Philippa Christodoulides, each representing India’s rich heritage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his five-day, three-nation tour on Sunday, with Cyprus as the first stop — marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the island nation in over two decades. He was warmly received at the airport by Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides.
Showcasing Indian craftsmanship
To President Christodoulides, he gifted an exquisite Kashmiri handmade silk carpet. Renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship, the carpet was woven using age-old techniques by artisans in the Kashmir Valley. The piece featured deep red tones with fawn-colored borders, adorned with classic vine and geometric patterns. A standout feature is its rare two-tone effect, which creates the illusion of two different designs depending on the angle and light, highlighting the carpet’s artistic complexity.
First Lady Philippa Christodoulides was presented with an elegant silver clutch purse from Andhra Pradesh. Crafted using the traditional repoussé technique, the clutch was decorated with intricate floral motifs inspired by temple and royal art. Its curved, regal silhouette was enhanced by ornate edges and a semi-precious stone centerpiece, merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary elegance.
#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweets “Thank you Cyprus. This visit will always be remembered for the positive outcomes for India-Cyprus friendship. Here are some highlights.”
(Source: PM Modi/’X’) pic.twitter.com/pJDXvoOBdJ
— ANI (@ANI) June 16, 2025
On Monday, PM Modi held delegation-level talks with President Christodoulides, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation across key sectors. The meeting, held at the Presidential Palace after a ceremonial welcome, was attended by senior Indian officials, including External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.
PM receives highest honour
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with Cyprus’s highest civilian honor, the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III. Expressing gratitude, he dedicated the prestigious award to the people of India.
“This honour is not just a recognition of me, Narendra Modi — it is an honour for 1.4 billion Indians. It is a tribute to their strength and aspirations,” he said, adding that the award also symbolises respect for India’s cultural heritage and the guiding philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which means “the world is one family.”
