Does Cyprus FM Support India's Zero Tolerance on Terrorism?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Cyprus FM endorses India's zero tolerance approach to terrorism.
- Support extends to both terrorists and their financial backers.
- First ministerial visit from Cyprus to India in 14 years.
- Cyprus to enhance EU-India relations during its EU presidency.
- Historical ties between Cyprus and India are being strengthened.
New Delhi, Oct 30 (NationPress) The Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos expressed appreciation for India's unwavering stance on the Cyprus issue, firmly supporting New Delhi's belief that terrorism must be addressed with zero tolerance—a principle that applies not only to the perpetrators but also to those who aid and finance them.
“We have extended our unwavering solidarity to India following the recent acts of terrorism, and we completely concur that the only effective method of combating terrorism is through zero tolerance. This applies equally to the terrorists and their supporters and financiers. Additionally, I am grateful for India's consistent and principled approach regarding the Cyprus issue,” Minister Kombos emphasized during a meeting with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar in New Delhi.
Kombos expressed his gratitude to EAM Jaishankar for the warm welcome during his inaugural visit to India, marking the first ministerial trip from Cyprus in 14 years.
Reflecting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus in June, he stated, “The Prime Minister's trip to Cyprus was the first in 22 years. We are now resuming from where our predecessors left off, and there is substantial work ahead, which has been politically outlined by our leadership following the declaration and the Joint Plan of Action. Significant progress has been made on the five-year joint action plan.”
As Cyprus is set to take on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union shortly, Kombos reiterated that Nicosia will continue to strive for the enhancement of the EU-India relationship in political domains and advance the ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement.
“This is a strategic choice for the European Union that must be accomplished, as it serves the mutual interests of both the EU and India. Cyprus will steadfastly support all efforts to achieve this vital goal. Ultimately, this relationship is grounded in deep historical roots and has a promising future ahead,” emphasized the Foreign Minister of Cyprus.