**India and Cyprus Need ‘Structured Roadmap’ for Tech and Startup Growth**
The Indian High Commissioner to Cyprus, Manish Manish, has emphasized the necessity for a structured roadmap to enhance cooperation between India and Cyprus in the fields of startups, research, and technology. This call for action was made during his recent discussions with members of KPMG Cyprus and Plug and Play Cyprus, where he outlined his vision for future collaboration.
In a post shared on his personal online platform, Manish highlighted the growing bilateral interest between the two nations and the potential for turning this interest into tangible partnerships. He noted that India has established one of the largest startup ecosystems globally, while Cyprus offers Indian companies a strategic entry point to the European Union, along with advantages in regulatory positioning, financial services, and international cooperation.
“What stood out most during the discussion was that the opportunity is no longer theoretical,” Manish remarked, indicating a shift towards practical implementation of collaborative efforts. He stressed that the real challenge lies in transitioning from mere interest to actionable steps that will foster cooperation.
The discussions covered several priorities aimed at strengthening the ties between the two countries' innovation ecosystems. Key areas of focus included the establishment of institutional partnerships, startup acceleration programs, and support mechanisms for companies aiming to access each other’s markets. Additionally, the conversation touched upon joint research initiatives in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, deep technology, semiconductors, climate technology, and digital innovation.
Manish also underscored the importance of fostering closer cooperation between universities, incubators, and industry stakeholders. Such collaboration could bridge the gap between academic research and commercial opportunities, while also facilitating venture capital and co-investment links that would enable startups to secure financing and expand their reach internationally.
A notable proposal from Manish was the introduction of a Cyprus-GIFT City dual-hub strategy, which aims to connect Indian innovation with European markets through Cyprus. This strategy builds on the developing relationship between the two financial centers, particularly following an agreement signed during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus in June 2025. This agreement, which involved the NSE International Exchange in GIFT City and the Cyprus Stock Exchange (CSE), focuses on cross and dual listings, capital-market cooperation, and investment opportunities.
Despite the promising landscape, Manish cautioned that the size of India’s startup ecosystem alone would not guarantee effective cooperation with international partners. “What matters is building predictable, institutional, and long-term mechanisms that connect founders, researchers, investors, corporations, and governments,” he stated, emphasizing the need for structured frameworks to facilitate collaboration.
His remarks follow a significant state visit by President Nikos Christodoulides to India in May, during which the two countries elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. This visit resulted in the signing of memoranda related to innovation and technology, as well as higher education and research, laying an official foundation for enhanced cooperation among universities, research institutions, and technology organizations.
Manish acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders in fostering this relationship, including Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nicodemos Damianou, Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides, and organizations such as the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Invest Cyprus, Cyprus Seeds, the Indian Chamber of Commerce, the Confederation of Indian Industry, and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
Furthermore, the existing memorandum of understanding between Invest Cyprus and Invest India, signed in December 2021, is expected to facilitate new investment projects and enhance cooperation between businesses in both countries. This agreement aims to boost bilateral investment activity and support business collaborations.
Looking ahead, Manish called for the creation of a structured roadmap that includes measurable partnerships, regular engagement, and sector-focused collaboration. He expressed optimism about the quality of engagement observed during the discussions and the shared recognition that innovation diplomacy could serve as a significant pillar in the India-Cyprus relationship.
In conclusion, the Indian High Commissioner’s remarks reflect a growing commitment to fostering a robust partnership between India and Cyprus in the realms of technology and innovation, with the potential for substantial benefits for both nations.