This isn't era of war: Modi & Cyprus President Nikos
In a message to both Israel and Iran, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he and
Cyprus
President Nikos Christodoulides "expressed concern" over the ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Europe, and they both agree that "this is not an era of war".
At a joint press conference with Christodoulides, Modi said "
resolution through dialogue
and restoration of stability is the call of humanity".
"We both expressed concern over the conflicts going on in West Asia and Europe. Their negative impact is not just limited to those regions. We both consider that this is not an era of war. Resolution through dialogue and restoration of stability is the call of humanity," Modi said. The remarks against war from Cyprus is notable as Cyprus is located in close proximity to Israel and shares strong ties with Tel Aviv.
Modi appreciated Cyprus for its support to India's fight against cross-border terrorism. "We are thankful for Cyprus' support to India's fight against cross-border terrorism," said Modi, who is currently on an official visit to Cyprus on the first leg of his three-nation tour. "We have a historic friendship, and there is trust in ties," Christodoulides said in his remarks.
He recalled the horrific
Pahalgam terror attack
of April 22 and asserted that Cyprus stands in "full solidarity" with India. Cyprus "stands with India in its fight against terrorism" in all forms and manifestations, the President said.
Christodoulides also referred to the Ahmedabad plane crash and said the people of Cyprus are with India in this time of grief. Modi and Christodoulides held wide-ranging talks, covering the full range of relations.
During the joint press meet, Christodoulides said, "We also discussed the Cyprus issue with the prime minister," adding Cyprus wants to end the "illegal occupation" by Turkey, referring to the disputed northern region. "We extend the gratitude of the Republic of Cyprus to India and its people for their support. The support for the territorial integrity of Cyprus, our reunification," he said.
The PM noted that mutual trust in democracy and the rule of law form a "strong foundation of our ties". "Our ties are neither made by circumstances nor limited. We respect each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said. Modi said, "Together, we will shape the future."
Highest civilian honour for Modi
"Humbled to receive the 'Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III' of Cyprus. I dedicate it to the friendship between our nations," the PM said. The Order of Makarios III is the senior order of knighthood awarded by the country named after the first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III. "I am confident that in the time to come, our active partnership will touch new heights...," the prime minister said.
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