New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Cyprus's Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos in New Delhi on Thursday, reaffirming the strong and enduring partnership between India and Cyprus. Describing the relationship as "trusted and time-tested," Jaishankar highlighted the deep mutual trust and shared democratic values that underpin the ties between the two nations.
The meeting centered on reviewing the India-Cyprus Joint Action Plan 2025-2029, which was agreed upon during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Cyprus in June 2025. The plan serves as a roadmap for strengthening bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including defense, trade, investment, technology, and culture. Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the progress made in implementing the plan and reiterated their commitment to achieving its goals.
Jaishankar conveyed India's appreciation for Cyprus's consistent support on issues of core interest to India, particularly in the fight against cross-border terrorism. He also thanked Cyprus for supporting India's bid for permanent membership in an expanded UN Security Council and for its membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group. India, in turn, reiterated its unwavering support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus and for a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.
In addition to bilateral matters, the two ministers exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to a rules-based international order and closer engagement at multilateral platforms. Discussions also covered the global geopolitical situation and developments in their respective regions.
With Cyprus set to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in early 2026, both sides expressed confidence that India-EU ties would further strengthen. They pledged to work towards the timely conclusion of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement by the end of 2025, recognizing its significant economic and strategic potential.
Kombos, who is on his first official visit to India from October 29 to October 31, expressed his delight and honor in meeting with Jaishankar. He thanked India for the warm welcome and hospitality. The visit underscores the shared commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral relations and advance their comprehensive partnership. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also extended a warm welcome to Kombos on X.
