President Droupadi Murmu hosts Cypriot counterpart Nikos Christodoulides, vows to deepen Strategic Partnership
New Delhi, May 22
President Droupadi Murmu received her Cypriot counterpart, Nikos Christodoulides, at Rashtrapati Bhavan hereon Friday. She also hosted a banquet in his honour.
Welcoming President Christodoulides and his delegation to India, the President said that India and Cyprus share close relations based on trust and goodwill.
She said that bilateral relations have been elevated to the level of a Strategic Partnership, reflecting the growing maturity, depth, and mutual trust in the India-Cyprus relationship.
President Murmu expressed happiness that India-Cyprus relations are entering a new phase, with expanding cooperation in priority sectors such as defence and security, technology, financial services, connectivity, and maritime cooperation.
She said that Cyprus continues to be among the major sources of Foreign Direct Investment in India.
Companies from Cyprus are showing increasing interest in expanding trade and investment ties with India.
India's vast market, digital transformation, infrastructure, and manufacturing capabilities provide immense opportunities for Cypriot companies and investors.
President Murmu said that technology and innovation have emerged as some of the most forward-looking areas of the India-Cyprus relationship. India's young talent, technological capabilities, and start-up ecosystem can complement Cyprus' innovation ecosystem.
She underlined that there is tremendous potential for cooperation in new sectors such as semiconductors, renewable energy, green energy, space, sustainable development, and Artificial Intelligence.
President Murmu said that during its Presidency of the European Union Council, Cyprus can play an important role in further expanding economic cooperation between India and Europe, particularly after the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement.
Murmu appreciated Cyprus' support on important issues such as cross-border terrorism and reform of multilateral institutions.
She reiterated India's unwavering support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Cyprus.
The two leaders agreed that close cooperation between India and Cyprus can bring immense benefits to their peoples.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally, some meaningful diplomacy! Cyprus has always been a friend, and it's good to see us reciprocating support on territorial integrity. But let's hope this partnership translates into real benefits for Indian startups and students, not just big corporations.
Interesting to see the India-Cyprus relationship evolving beyond just FDI. The emphasis on maritime cooperation and EU ties could be a game-changer for trade routes. Well played, India.
Does this mean more jobs for Indians in Cyprus or vice versa? I'm all for strategic partnerships, but the average person wants to know how this impacts their daily life. Also, why is cross-border terrorism mentioned? Is Cyprus facing threats too?
Love that President Murmu highlighted our startup ecosystem and young talent! Hope this leads to more tech exchanges and scholarships for Indian students in Cyprus. Shukriya, Madam President! 🙏✨
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.