Strengthening bilateral ties and promoting relations between India and the EU are on the agenda of Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades` visit to India, Government Spokesman Nikos Christodoulides has said.

Speaking to the press in Mumbai, first city of the President`s four-day state visit, the Spokesman said that enhancing economic and trade relations between the two countries is a top priority.

He described the visit as very important, adding that it will provide a good opportunity to reassure the high level of political ties between Cyprus and India, something which translates into the long-standing support of India in efforts for a Cyprus solution, at different fora.

The Spokesman also said that during the visit, the President will have the opportunity to further promote ties in areas such as air transport, shipping and tourism. He pointed out that this is one of the main reasons the visit has commenced from Mumbai, the financial and fiscal hub of India.

Christodoulides said that the President will attend two business fora, with the participation of a group of Cyprus businessmen who accompany him.

The Spokesman noted that during the contacts and especially the meeting with the Indian Premier, the President will discuss further enhancing relations between India and the EU. He recalled that only recently EU High Representative Federica Mogherini was in India and at the same time, the talks between the two sides are underway, and Cyprus supports them.

President Anastasiades and the Indian Premier are set to sign a number of bilateral agreements.