Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi on Tuesday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the ceasefire line in Nicosia, Cyprus, calling it a “welcome step” and a gesture of long-overdue solidarity.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Singhvi wrote, "Welcome step by PM Modi to look over illegally occupied land of Cyprus by Turkey. Have been advocating this since a long time. However, better late than never." He further added, "Enough is enough. Stand with Cyprus: demand sovereignty, oppose expansionism!"

PM Modi’s brief yet significant visit to Cyprus from June 15–16 was the first by an Indian Prime Minister in over two decades. It came amid India’s continuing diplomatic strain with Turkey, particularly over Ankara’s vocal support for Pakistan and its recognition of the so-called 'Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus'—a region seized by Turkish forces in 1974 and still under dispute.

During his visit, PM Modi toured the ceasefire line in old Nicosia with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus shared a post on X stating, “Tour with the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi along the ceasefire line, in old Nicosia. Where the signs of the Turkish occupation remain visible.”

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) added that the two leaders walked through the historic heart of Nicosia, symbolizing the resilience of the Cypriot people and their ongoing struggle for reunification and sovereignty.

Cypriot President Christodoulides emphasized the strategic depth of India-Cyprus ties, stating, “Cyprus is a predictable and secure ally of India in a region of particular geostrategic importance, such as the Eastern Mediterranean, the wider Middle East.” He also highlighted the potential for stronger India-EU ties during Cyprus’s upcoming EU Council Presidency in 2026.

“I also want to publicly thank you for your long-standing stance on the Cyprus issue and our efforts to end the Turkish occupation and reunite our homeland. At the same time, I want to publicly express the support of the Republic of Cyprus in your efforts to confront both international and cross-border terrorism,” Christodoulides said.