New Delhi [India], November 27 (ANI): As Cyprus prepares for its Presidency of the Council of the European Union in early 2026, finalising the European Union-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is a top priority, according to Annita Demetriou, President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus.
In an exclusive interview with ANI, Demetriou emphasised the strategic importance of India as a key ally and pledged Cyprus’s full support to expedite the landmark trade deal. “We have to; we have to seal that, and we aspire to that, because we do believe that India is a very important ally,” she said, highlighting the mutual benefits of the agreement.
As a full EU member for 20 years, Demetriou stated Cyprus would actively support efforts to strengthen India-Europe relations. “Through synergies and collaborations, we can do more,” she added. She also expressed strong support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project, viewing it as a critical avenue for enhanced cooperation.
Demetriou highlighted Cyprus’s potential contributions to the IMEC corridor and broader bilateral relations with India, noting key sectors such as shipping, trade, education, and connectivity. “At the European level, regarding IMEC and broader agreements between Europe and India, we can do a lot,” she said, acknowledging growing regional interest in Indian collaboration.
Regarding Turkey’s occupation of Northern Cyprus, Demetriou expressed deep gratitude for India’s steadfast support. “India stood firmly next to Cyprus all these years, corresponding positively to the Agreed Framework and UN Security Council resolutions,” she said. She also acknowledged India’s contribution to the UN peacekeeping mission in Cyprus.
Concluding with a vision for regional peace, Demetriou stated, “Cyprus can be a catalyst to the security and peace enforcement that we want for the neighbourhood, for Europe, and for the whole world. India has a strong position and leverage to advance these goals.” (ANI)
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