October 31, 2025
Speaking at the 55th Sapru House Lecture in New Delhi, he called for stronger Cyprus–India cooperation in diplomacy, trade and connectivity
Kombos said the EU–India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would “unlock immense economic opportunity” for both sides
He highlighted the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a transformative project for regional connectivity, with Cyprus well-positioned to play a role
The minister also noted that both nations share common experiences of anti-colonial struggles and support each other on matters of “existential importance”
Cyprus views India as a “natural partner and ally” and one of the leading voices in an increasingly multipolar world, Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos said in New Delhi.
Delivering the 55th Sapru House Lecture on “Cyprus and the World,” Kombos praised India’s growing global stature, saying the country is now recognised as a “global powerhouse” with “rich history, culture, and unrivalled potential.”
“Today, with India emerging as the leading voice in a multipolar world, Cyprus sees India not only as an old friend but also as a partner for future cooperation,” he said.
The minister also stressed the importance of cooperation and dialogue in a time he described as a “polycrisis,” marked by geopolitical fragmentation, economic instability, and multiple global challenges, including the war in Ukraine, the Middle East conflict, and the lingering effects of the pandemic and inflation.
“At a time like this, Cyprus believes in building networks of cooperation rather than walls of division,” Kombos said, underlining the need for collective responsibility in maintaining the global order.
Kombos met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar earlier in the day and reviewed the India–Cyprus Joint Action Plan 2025–2029, which was finalised during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus in June 2025. He described the visit as a “historical milestone” and a “launchpad for future collaboration.”
Both countries, he noted, share the legacy of struggles against colonial rule and understand the “value of balance, diplomacy, and dialogue.” Over the decades, Cyprus and India have “consistently supported each other on matters of existential importance.”
Without directly naming any country, Kombos referred to Cyprus’s territorial challenges since 1974, saying: “We have an aggressor, we have an invader and an occupier on our island. At the same time, that country is a well-sought-after ally and friend for many.”
Highlighting regional cooperation, he pointed to the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a “visionary proposal” that could reshape global trade routes and boost connectivity. “The Mediterranean region is geographically a key component for the IMEC, and Cyprus is well-positioned to play its role in this emerging architecture,” he said.
As Cyprus prepares to take over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 January 2026, Kombos said his government would work to strengthen the EU–India partnership.
He also called for the swift conclusion of the EU–India Free Trade Agreement, saying it would not only deepen bilateral ties but also “unlock immense economic opportunity for Cyprus, India, and all European countries.”
Concluding his remarks, Kombos said both India and Cyprus are charting a strategic, forward-looking path rooted in shared values and common aspirations. “From historical solidarity to contemporary cooperation, the two countries are working together towards a future built on partnership, trust and mutual respect,” he said.
Source: Business Standard