What Did EAM Jaishankar and Cyprus Counterpart Discuss About the Joint Action Plan?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening bilateral ties: The meeting underlined the commitment to enhancing India-Cyprus relations.
- Joint Action Plan: A roadmap for collaboration in key areas such as defense and trade.
- EU Presidency: Cyprus's upcoming presidency offers a platform for deeper India-EU ties.
- Mutual respect: The partnership is built on shared democratic values.
- Support against terrorism: Recognition of Cyprus's backing in India's fight against cross-border terrorism.
New Delhi, Oct 30 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and his visiting counterpart from Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, engaged in discussions regarding the India-Cyprus Joint Action Plan 2025-2029 during their meeting in New Delhi on Thursday.
During the meeting, EAM Jaishankar highlighted that he and Kombos deliberated on the global geopolitical landscape, regional developments, and collaborations within multilateral platforms.
"It was a pleasure to welcome FM Constantinos Kombos of Cyprus today in New Delhi. We assessed the India-Cyprus Joint Action Plan 2025-2029, which was agreed upon by our leaders during PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus in June 2025. Our dialogue also tackled the global geopolitical climate, regional developments, and our cooperation in multilateral channels. As Cyprus prepares to assume the European Union Presidency in 2026, we are optimistic about the enhancement of India-EU relations," EAM Jaishankar shared on X.
The Action Plan serves as a blueprint for executing the Joint Declaration established during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Cyprus earlier this year, outlining short, medium, and long-term objectives in critical areas of collaboration, including defense, trade, business, and innovation and technology sectors.
Expressing gratitude for India's warm reception, Kombos stated that he felt "delighted and honored" to meet with India's Minister of External Affairs during his inaugural official visit to India.
"My visit to India, shortly following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to Cyprus, signals the strength of Cyprus-India relations," he noted on X.
The visiting Foreign Minister underscored that their discussions concentrated on advancing the Cyprus-India strategic partnership, including the execution of the Joint Action Plan agreed upon by both nations.
Topics covered also included EU-India relations, the priorities for Cyprus's upcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU, and regional developments concerning Ukraine and the Middle East.
"I reaffirmed our gratitude for India's longstanding principled support regarding the Cyprus Issue and its adherence to international law," Kombos remarked.
In his opening comments during the meeting, EAM Jaishankar reiterated India's support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Cyprus and a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, in line with relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions.
"Your visit coincides with Cyprus gearing up to take on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union starting January 1, 2026. Enhancing ties with both Cyprus and the EU is vital for India, and we genuinely appreciate your unwavering support in this context. India and Cyprus are not only trusted allies but also reliable partners. Trust and a time-tested relationship are terms that may be rare in today's world, yet I can state with great assurance that our bond embodies these qualities," he added.
"Our relations have evolved into a comprehensive partnership anchored in mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a joint strategic vision. It is future-oriented and aligns with the aspirations of both nations. We also collaborate closely in regional and multilateral forums, including the United Nations, the European Union, and Commonwealth frameworks,” he remarked.
EAM Jaishankar expressed gratitude for Cyprus' backing concerning India's challenges with cross-border terrorism.
"We deeply value Cyprus’ consistent support on issues crucial to India, particularly in our struggle against cross-border terrorism. I wish to thank your government again for the strong condemnation following the Pahalgam terrorist attack and the solidarity expressed with India in our fight against terrorism. We also recognize your ongoing support for India's permanent membership in an expanded UN Security Council and for joining the Nuclear Suppliers Group."
Constantinos Kombos arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday for a three-day official visit to India.