External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos on Friday, discussing regional challenges and reaffirming their opposition to the occupation of territories. The two leaders reviewed bilateral ties and India-European Union relations, underlining their commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the Constitution of the seas. Jaishankar posted on X, detailing their discussions.
Jaishankar and Kombos exchanged views on regional challenges, emphasizing their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade, shipping, connectivity, security, defence, digitalisation, and beyond. The Cyprus FM stated that they are committed to continuing to work closely together to advance their shared strategic interests. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the 81st UNGA.
India and Cyprus have strengthened their trade and defence ties, with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides visiting India in May. During this visit, the two nations elevated bilateral ties to a strategic partnership and signed several MoUs aimed at deepening cooperation across areas such as trade and defence. Jaishankar visited Cyprus in the same month, further solidifying their relationship.
The West Asian country has backed India's bid for a permanent seat at the UNSC. Meanwhile, Jaishankar also met United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, discussing the global food and energy crisis and reviewing bilateral ties. They touched on pressing global challenges and shared priorities for an even closer bilateral partnership.
Jaishankar has continued his intensive diplomatic outreach in New York, meeting his counterparts from Armenia, Barbados, and Iraq, besides meeting Panama President Jose Raul Mulino. His diplomatic efforts aim to address pressing global issues and strengthen India's relationships with other nations.
India and Liberia have brought together a group to address concerns over attacks on seafarers. Jaishankar highlighted India's stance on this issue, emphasizing the need for cooperation to ensure the safety of seafarers. This initiative demonstrates India's proactive approach to global maritime security.
Jaishankar's meetings on the sidelines of the 81st UNGA reflect India's commitment to fostering strong relationships with countries worldwide. His discussions with Kombos, Miliband, and other leaders underscore India's proactive diplomacy, focusing on regional challenges, bilateral ties, and global issues.
Key points
- India and Cyprus reaffirm their opposition to the illegal occupation of territories.
- Jaishankar and Kombos discuss strengthening cooperation in trade, shipping, and defence.
- India seeks a permanent seat at the UNSC, backed by Cyprus.
