In current dynamic situation, we see India as natural partner, ally: Cypriot FM Kombos
Speaking at an event on Thursday, Kombos said the “successful conclusion” of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would not only strengthen EU-India ties but also unlock “tremendous economic opportunities” for Cyprus, India and all European countries.
Kombos delivered the 55th Sapru House Speech on “Cyprus and the World”.
“India is a global powerhouse, it is a fact…. It has the richest history and culture and has unrivaled potential. It is a fact,” he said and also touched upon how Cyprus and India can become partners.
He said that in such a period marked by fragmentation, instability and uncertainty, Cyprus believes that “cooperation networks” should be built instead of walls of division.
“We meet here today in the midst of a polycrisis that is no exception in terms of the scope and impact of its effects. There is no parochialism, no immunity,” Kombos said. he said. He spoke of the global financial crisis, the Covid-19 crisis, the rise in inflation the world is facing, and “a war in Ukraine” in the wake of “Russia’s illegal occupation and continued aggression.” He also highlighted the current situation in Gaza, the threat in the Red Sea and Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The Cypriot minister said, “Radicalism, extremism and terrorism are a global reality today…. And there is uncertainty about the direction of the global system… Right now, no one is willing to act as an insurance policy for the security of the global system. We must all do this individually and together, and there is an opportunity in this.” he said.
“We see India as a natural partner and ally in the dynamic situation,” he said.
“Today, at a time when India is emerging as a leading voice in an increasingly multipolar world, Cyprus sees India not only as an old friend but also as a partner for future cooperation.” he said.
Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Kombos held bilateral talks here and reviewed the India-Cyprus Joint Action Plan 2025-2029 agreed upon by the leaders during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus in June.
Kombos said in his speech, “Prime Minister Modi’s visit was a historic turning point for this partnership, which is the starting point of future cooperation.” he said.
He underlined that both countries were shaped by the legacy of the struggle against colonial rule and that both understand “the value of balance, diplomacy and dialogue.” For decades, “we have consistently supported each other on issues of existential importance to both of them,” Kombos said.
Kombos will pay an official visit to India from 29 October to 31 October.
In his speech, without naming any country, he said, “We have an aggressor, an invader, an invader on our island. At the same time, that country is a sought-after ally and friend for many.”
The north of Cyprus has been under Turkish control since 1974.
Kombos also underlined the importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
“A crucial part of the platform and opportunity for cooperation is IMEC, a visionary proposal that can transform connectivity between regions. It is a geopolitical instrument with the potential to reshape global trade, trade routes and critical economic activities. The Mediterranean region is a geographically important component for IMEC and Cyprus is well positioned to play its role in this emerging architecture,” the Cypriot leader said. he said.
He further added that as a member of the EU, “we are committed to strengthening the EU-India partnership and this offers us the opportunity to bring new dynamism to this relationship during our upcoming Council presidency.”
Cyprus will assume the rotating presidency of the EU Council on 1 January 2026.
“Cyprus strongly supports the conclusion of the long-negotiated FTA between the EU and India. And the successful conclusion of this FTA will not only strengthen EU-India ties but also unlock tremendous economic opportunities for Cyprus, India and all European countries,” Kombos said. he said.
He underlined that the world today is “undeniably in a state of change” and that Cyprus remains committed to being a responsible State as it “navigates polarities and complexities”.
Regarding their ties with India, Kombos said that from historical solidarity to contemporary cooperation, from common values to common aspirations, the two countries “are charting both a strategic and forward-looking route together.”
