Cyprus President Christodoulides calls for stronger EU-India relations amid rising global uncertainty
New Delhi, May 22
Emphasising the need for deeper engagement between the European Union and India amid rising geopolitical uncertainty, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides on Friday said that the partnership is evolving beyond trade and economics into a wider strategic relationship.
Addressing a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following their bilateral talks in New Delhi, Christodoulides said, "I referenced at the outset, in these times of growing geopolitical uncertainty, I firmly believe that the partnership between the European Union and India must become even stronger because this relationship is no longer driven only by economics. It is evolving at a fast pace into a broader comprehensive strategic partnership grounded in shared interests, shared responsibilities, and a common commitment to stability, resilience, and prosperity."
"Indeed, Europe and India have every reason to deepen their cooperation further on security, trade, technology, innovation and connectivity," he added.
Highlighting the longstanding connection between the two countries, the Cypriot President said Cyprus-India relations are founded on shared values and historical experiences, with ties between the people from both sides going back centuries.
"They were forged through common struggles for, for freedom and the right of peoples to self-determination. And those relations are consistently strengthened through our shared commitment to peace, democracy, and respect for international law. And today, in an increasingly fragmented world, this partnership must be seen in a new light because Cyprus and India are once again called upon to work together and address the challenges of a changing world," he stated.
Christodoulides further said that strengthening the EU-India partnership remains a core priority during Cyprus's Presidency of the EU.
"The European Union-India partnership is an integral part of the vision of the Cyprus Presidency for a union that is more open to the world. In this effort, Cyprus is uniquely positioned to serve as a trusted, stable, reliable bridge between India and Europe. A bridge between the European Union, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the wider Middle East," he noted.
Calling the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a "visionary initiative," the Cypriot President said that the project reflects the growing significance of trusted connectivity between the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe.
"We have continuous conversation with the Prime Minister about regional connectivity initiatives, including, of course, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. I consider this a visionary initiative reflecting the growing importance of trusted interconnection between the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. And Cyprus, located at the crossroads of three continents and the gateway to Europe, stands ready to contribute actively to this shared vision," Christodoulides stated.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, someone who gets it! Europe needs India as much as we need them. Christodoulides seems to understand that true partnership is about shared values, not just business. The historical connection through Cyprus and our shared fight for freedom is a beautiful foundation to build on.
Strategic partnership is all fine, but what about the practical side? Will this help Indian students get better opportunities in Cyprus? Will there more direct flights? And please let's not forget that India must protect its own interests first in any such corridor project. No more empty promises!
As someone who's lived in Cyprus, can confirm the deep cultural ties are real. The Indian community there is vibrant and respected. This isn't just diplomatic talk – the people-to-people connection is genuine. Excited to see this relationship grow beyond trade.
Every European leader comes to India with grand talk, but what's the follow-through? Still waiting for the EU-India FTA to materialise. Nice words from Cyprus President, but show me the action on trade barriers and visa facilitation. J᧐ bhi ho, India first! 🔥
The IMEC corridor is indeed visionary – connecting India to Europe through the Middle East bypasses the Suez Canal delays and creates new economic opportunities. Cyprus as a bridge between three continents is strategically perfect. Proud to see India being courted as a global player! 🌏✨
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