Press Releases

The President of the Republic Mr Nicos Anastasiades hosted tonight an official dinner in honour of the President of the Republic of India Mr Shri Ram Nath Kovind, at the Presidential Palace.

In his remarks at the dinner, President Anastasiades said that “It is with distinct honour and privilege that I welcome you in Cyprus. Above all, it is a great pleasure to reciprocate the warm hospitality extended during our visit to your beautiful country last year.

The bonds between our countries stretch back to the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus, following the end of India’s and Cyprus’ struggle against colonialism. In fact, the first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios, and the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Nehru, were among the protagonists of the Non-Aligned Movement.

And these are precisely the foundations on which our excellent long-standing relationship is based: On our shared vision for peace and democracy and on historical bonds of friendship, both at the government and the peoples’ level. Your visit President Kovind is another landmark of this great friendship; a friendship that I am certain will be further enhanced in the future.

The tangible proof of the affinity by the Cypriot people to the Indian spirit can be witnessed by the monuments raised and the streets named in honour of the legacy and achievements of Ghandi and Nehru, as well as to the brave UNFICYP force commanders who have served during very difficult times for the Republic of Cyprus.

In this regard, I am extremely pleased that tomorrow another monument will be inaugurated in honour of the Indian musician, artist and poet, Tagore, who was the first non – European to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Speaking of famous Indian poets, the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in one of his own poems entitled “We shall not allow war”, spoke of the struggle for a world without war. The poet eloquently says: “We have suffered, we will spare our children this fate. We shall not allow war”.

Cypriots, as well as Indians, are well aware that peace is the most expensive commodity in our respective regions. We are also aware that, irrespective of how evasive the quest for peace and security seems at times, the guiding principle of our actions is to provide a better future for the generations to come.

Dear Mr President,

I am extremely pleased to witness the relationship between our countries growing to a solid partnership. Today, I can attest that we have held productive consultations; we have worked to bring our countries even closer together and strengthen our cooperation, both at the bilateral and multilateral level, including the United Nations and the European Union.

We have also signed Memoranda of Understanding in two important fields of co-operation and we also re-affirmed our determination to cooperate in the international arena to address global and regional problems which require a collective response, such as counter-terrorism, the combat of money laundering, non-proliferation and the protection of the environment.

With these thoughts, I ask you to join me in a toast to the health and happiness of President Kovind and the First Lady, to the progress and prosperity of the people of India and to the strong friendship between India and Cyprus. I warmly welcome you to Cyprus and I hope you will enjoy your stay on the island.”

On his part, the President of India said that “Cyprus and India are very special friends. We have supported each other in our struggle for Independence.  And thereafter, on the path shown by our great leaders Archbishop Makarios and Mahatma Gandhi, who continued to support each other for peace and prosperity.

As two ancient civilizations, we have a deeper understanding of each other’s culture and thought. Our two nations have always been open and receptive to ideas, cultures and peoples. Our shared historical experience and sensibilities have drawn us closer as friends and as partners.  

Our relations are based on deep mutual trust. We both have been steadfast supporters of each other on issues of vital concern. India’s commitment to Cyprus and to its territorial integrity remains deep and abiding.

Our bilateral agenda today is diverse and expanding. Both countries have a substantive and growing economic relationship, with investment and commercial cooperation, supported by close people to people contact.

Our two countries are located in a challenging security environment. We must support each other in our quest for peace and security. India deeply appreciates the strong condemnation of terrorist acts by Cyprus and looks forward to closely working with you to defeat and destroy this evil. 

Mr. President, I am aware that you are committed to seeking a just and viable solution to the painful legacy that has divided your country and your people for over forty years. I am sure that under your sagacious leadership, a long-lasting solution will be found.

Mr. President, our friendship is truly unique and special.  I am reminded of it every morning as I stroll in my garden along the majestic Cypress trees. May this friendship prosper forever!

On this positive note, Ladies and Gentlemen, I invite you to join me in raising a toast to:

• The health and wellbeing of President of Cyprus and First Lady;
• To the continued progress and prosperity of the people of Cyprus; and
• To the enduring friendship between India and Cyprus.”

Earlier tonight the two Presidents had a walk-through tour of a visual exhibition, at the Presidential Palace, comprising, among other things, photographs, stamps, press releases on the relations between Cyprus and India, their governments and their people, over the years. The exhibition was organized by the Press and Information Office.

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RM/IP/II