India, May 23 -- In a major step toward expanding India's global digital payments network, India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) will become operational in Cyprus from next year, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Friday.

The development comes during the four-day State Visit of Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides to India from May 20 to May 23, 2026, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Addressing a special media briefing on the visit, MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George described the move as a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral cooperation and financial connectivity between the two nations.

"UPI will become operational in Cyprus from next year, which is a significant step forward," Geor...