India Reiterates ‘Unwavering Support’ for Cyprus Sovereignty, Bi-Zonal Federation Solution
NEW DELHI: India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, today reiterated New Delhi’s unwavering support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Cyprus, underscoring the deep strategic partnership between the two nations.
During a meeting with his Cypriot counterpart, Dr. Constantinos Kombos, in New Delhi, Dr. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s stance for a resolution to the Cyprus issue based on a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, in line with relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.
Dr. Jaishankar praised Cyprus for its consistent support in India’s “battle against cross-border terrorism.” He specifically thanked the Cypriot government for its strong condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and for expressing solidarity with India’s fight against terrorism.
The External Affairs Minister highlighted several key areas of mutual cooperation, noting that Cyprus is a crucial partner in multilateral fora. He expressed appreciation for Cyprus’s consistent support for India’s Permanent Membership in an expanded United Nations Security Council and for its membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
He also acknowledged that Cyprus is preparing to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) starting January 1 next year, stating that strengthening ties with both Cyprus and the EU remains a key priority for India.
Dr. Jaishankar characterized the bilateral ties as having developed into a “comprehensive partnership anchored in mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a joint strategic vision.” He described the relationship as forward-looking and aligned with the interests and aspirations of both countries.
The Minister recalled the successful visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Cyprus in June this year, during which a Joint Declaration on the Implementation of the Comprehensive Partnership was issued. He confirmed that the visit provided guidance for the further deepening of bilateral ties across a range of new areas.
To formalize this progress, both countries have prepared the India-Cyprus Joint Action Plan 2025-2029, which is scheduled for review.
Mr. Jaishankar emphasized that India and Cyprus also cooperate closely in regional and multilateral fora, including the United Nations, the European Union, and the Commonwealth frameworks.