India, Cyprus upgrade ties, sign pact to counter terror

NEW DELHI: India and Cyprus upgraded their ties to a strategic partnership, launched a roadmap for defence cooperation and signed an MoU for establishing a joint working group on counterterrorism as PM Narendra Modi hosted President Nikos Christodoulides for talks. Modi mentioned ties with Cyprus, which presently holds the EU Council presidency, have been primarily based on shared values like democracy and the rule of legislation, whereas reiterating India’s help to the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the japanese Mediterranean nation that’s not recognised by Tukiye.“We respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. India is and can stay absolutely dedicated to these rules,” mentioned Modi, calling Cyprus an essential funding gateway between India and the entire of Europe. He mentioned that Cyprus was one in every of India’s prime 10 buyers and with rising belief, and capitalising on the India-EU FTA, each side aimed to double this funding within the subsequent 5 years.“This strategic partnership between India and Cyprus will unlock capital for commerce by connecting the monetary and companies hubs of each international locations. It can present new alternatives for Indian firms in Cyprus’ infrastructure, vitality, and agriculture sectors, and also will convey new funding to India’s quickly rising delivery and maritime sectors,” mentioned the PM.The leaders mentioned the IMEC initiative and likewise defence and safety cooperation, with Modi calling it an essential pillar of the connection. “We’re more than happy that army exchanges and coaching cooperation between the 2 international locations have elevated over the previous few years. At present we additionally determined to additional strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity, maritime safety, and counter-terrorism,” mentioned the PM. The 2 sides additionally established a cybersecurity dialogue.With many Indian college students and professionals residing in Cyprus, each side agreed to quickly conclude a complete migration and mobility partnership, in addition to a social safety settlement.Prime Minister Modi introduced up the Ukraine and West Asia points in his media assertion, saying that each international locations will proceed to help efforts for peace and an early finish to battle. The 2 leaders additionally agreed that reform of worldwide establishments is pressing and essential to handle rising international challenges, with the President reiterating Cyprus’ help for India’s everlasting membership bid in a reformed safety council.The leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance method to terrorism, rejecting double requirements, state sponsored terrorism and any justification for such acts, below any circumstances, whereas condemning cross border terrorism and the Pahalgam terrorist assault.“Cyprus expressed solidarity and unwavering help to India in its battle in opposition to cross-border terrorism,” mentioned the joint assertion.Each leaders recognised the India-Center East-Europe Financial Hall’s (IMEEC) transformational potential in reshaping and selling international commerce, connectivity and prosperity. “They reiterated their shared dedication to selling stability within the Japanese Mediterranean and the broader Center East and emphasised the significance of fostering deeper engagement and corridors of interconnection from India by way of the broader Center East to Europe. They mentioned the institution of a Bilateral Connectivity Dialogue,” mentioned the assertion.