Cyprus calls for action against backers of ‘violence factories’

Signs four pacts with India, including on air services and merchant shipping

With open arms:Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades with President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on FridaySandeep Saxena

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades on Friday strongly pitched for decisive action against states supporting, sheltering and sustaining “violence factories” in their regions.

The two leaders held detailed discussions on bilateral as well as regional and international issues of mutual concern.

These included ways to boost trade ties and U.N. Security Council reforms.

Both sides also signed four pacts, including one for air services and another on cooperation in merchant shipping.

At a joint media event with the Cypriot leader, Mr. Modi said India has always stood with Cyprus on crucial issues and firmly supports its sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.

Mr. Anastasiades said he is sincerely appreciative of his “dearest friend” Modi and the Indian government for India’s unequivocal support on the Cyprus issue.

Terrorism threat

Mr. Modi said that while India has been battling cross-border terrorism for decades, Cyprus, due to its geographical location, understood the threat posed by terrorism.

“We agreed that there is an urgent need for all countries to decisively act against those states which generate, support, shelter and sustain these factories of violence in our regions,” the prime minister said in a veiled reference to Pakistan.

Emphasising the need for creating a comprehensive legal framework to fight terror, Mr. Modi advocated early conclusion of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, proposed by India at the UN.

The two sides also agreed on the need for early reforms in the UNSC as Mr. Modi expressed India’s appreciation for Cyprus’ support to India’s bid for inclusion in the world body as a permanent member.

The Cypriot leader said his country wanted India to become a member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

‘Great friend’

Describing the Cypriot President as “great friend and strong supporter of India”, Mr. Modi said he also discussed with him ways to strengthen the partnership in other “inter- governmental organisations and regimes.”

Issues like growing economic relations between India and Cyprus figured during the talks.

The Mediterranean country is the eighth largest investor in India.