New delhi: House of Representatives President Annita Demetriou, leading a parliamentary delegation, wrapped up her official visit to India with a meeting with Om Birla, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. During this meeting, discussions centered on the Cyprus issue, bilateral cooperation, and the upcoming Cyprus EU Presidency, which commences on January 1st.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Demetriou and her delegation, accompanied by Cyprus’ High Commissioner Evagoras Vryonides, included MPs Nikos Tornaritis, Aristos Damianou, and Christiana Erotokritou. A press release from the parliament noted that the Speaker of the Lok Sabha welcomed the delegation by highlighting the historical ties and democratic paths shared by the two nations, as well as the expanding scope of their cooperation.
Birla reiterated India’s ongoing support for the Cyprus issue and commended India’s contribution to the United Nations peacekeeping force in Cyprus. He also congratulated Demetriou on her election as the first female House of Representatives President and acknowledged her work in promoting gender equality in Cyprus and international platforms. He mentioned legislative measures India has enacted in this realm.
Demetriou expressed her gratitude for India’s steadfast support concerning the Cyprus issue, emphasizing Cyprus’s ongoing challenges due to Turkey’s invasion and occupation. She reaffirmed the Greek Cypriot side’s dedication to finding a solution aligned with international law and UN resolutions for the reunification of Cyprus under peaceful and secure conditions.
Demetriou assured Birla of Cyprus’s role as a trustworthy partner for India, pledging continued support for EU-India cooperation, especially during Cyprus’s presidency of the EU Council. They discussed the potential for enhanced collaboration in defense, technology, innovation, shipping, tourism, mobility, and connectivity, following the Joint Declaration by the leaders of both countries during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus and the 2025-2029 Joint Action Plan.
Both leaders expressed their intent to capitalize on opportunities presented by technology to foster exchanges between parliamentary committees and Friendship Groups in both Parliaments. Before their meeting, Demetriou signed the Guest Book and toured the parliamentary premises.
The House of Representatives President and her delegation are scheduled to return home on Friday.