Cyprus Sees India as a Key Global Partner in an Emerging Multipolar World
Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos praised India as a global powerhouse and a natural ally amid global instability. He emphasized the opportunity presented by the upcoming EU-India Free Trade Agreement and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to strengthen cooperation and economic ties between Cyprus, India, and Europe.
During the 55th Sapru House Lecture, Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos highlighted India's emergence as a leading voice in an increasingly multipolar world and described it as a global powerhouse with unrivaled history, culture, and potential. He addressed current global challenges like financial crises, the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and geopolitical tensions including the war in Ukraine, Gaza, and nuclear threats. Kombos stressed Cyprus's commitment to building cooperative networks over divisions, viewing India as a natural partner and ally in this dynamic environment. He supported the conclusion of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement, which he said would unlock significant economic opportunities for Cyprus, India, and European nations. Additionally, he underscored the strategic importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a transformative geopolitical and trade initiative with Cyprus well-positioned to contribute due to its Mediterranean location. The minister referred to historic solidarity between Cyprus and India, shaped by shared struggles against colonialism and mutual support on existential issues. The article also noted talks between Kombos and India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Kombos’s upcoming role in Cyprus’s EU Council presidency, further reinforcing the strengthened bilateral relations and future collaboration.
