After Middle East Ceasefire, Cyprus FM Kombos Warns of Violations, Bats for India-Backed Corridor | Exclusive

Even after the ceasefire in the Middle East after weeks of fighting, there has been violence, which Constantinos Kombos, the foreign minister of the strategically located eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus,

said was a matter of concern, keeping in mind peace in the region. “The multiple violations even after the ceasefire announcement are indeed concerning,” he told TIMES NOW.“The current ceasefire and peace plan, if materialised effectively is likely to have a momentous effect in the wider region. It can encourage all states across the region to set aside their differences and collaborate closely for the implementation of the plan. It could ultimately contribute to the normalisation of relations, thus enhancing peace and stability in the region,” Kombos added. He pointed out that besides supporting the Trump plan, Cyprus had also offered its six-point plan focusing on security, reconstruction and humanitarian aid. He also spoke about the Amalthea Plan to get aid to Gaza.Asked about the India-Middle East-Europe-Corridor or IMEEC, Kombos said his country attached "great importance to the project," as it "offers significant prospects, in terms of inter-regional cooperation and coonectivity in areas of security, trade, energy and technology." He added that Cyprus was keen to participate in IMEEC projects "considering its strategic location, combined with its EU (European Union) membership and business-friendly environment, including an English-speaking workforce, modern infrastructure and strong services sector." There is also Cyprus' strong shipping sector. As a result, Cyprus, with a small population of 1.4 million, but a percapita income of close to $40,000, is in close touch with India and other involved countries about the project. With the peace plan in place in the Middle-East, there is a strong possibility of IMEEC becoming a reality quite soon and Kombos said it could be a "catalyst for constructive regional cooperation" and will help in "promoting stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East." Economic ties between India and Cyprus are growing with bilateral trade at a not insignificant 137 Euros and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Nicosia last June could lead to stronger partnership. Foreign direct investment from Cyprus into India is over 14 billion Euros and this includes areas like information technology, real estate and pharmaceuticals. Most importantly, two Cypriot shipping firms-- Interorient Navigation and Danship and Partners will be investing Rs 10,000 crore in the Indian shipping sector. India's shipping sector opened up in 2005 with 100 percent FDI being allowed.