ADDRESS BY THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SHRI RAM NATH KOVIND AT THE BANQUET HOSTED BY PRESIDENT OF CYPRUS MR NICOS ANASTASIADES
Nicosia : 03.09.2018
1. Thank you Mr. President for your warm words of welcome and for your gracious hospitality accorded to me and my delegation.
2. 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 continued to support each other for peace and prosperity.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Excellency, 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.
6. Excellency, 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.
7. 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.
8. 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!
9. On this positive note, Ladies and Gentlemen, I invite you to join me in raising a toast to:
-The health and well being 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