DISY has criticised AKEL over its position on the visit of the President of Israel to Cyprus, accusing the left-wing party of allowing ideological considerations to shape its approach to foreign policy.
In a statement issued on Friday, DISY defended the strategic relationship between Cyprus and Israel, arguing that cooperation between the two countries serves important national interests in areas including energy, defence and security.
Defence of strategic partnership
The party said Cyprus continues to maintain and strengthen a strategic partnership with Israel in key sectors and argued that such relationships should be assessed through the lens of national interests rather than ideological preferences.
According to DISY, Cyprus' foreign policy should be determined by the country's geopolitical realities, its European orientation and its broader regional role.
Response to AKEL's position
The statement came after AKEL backed a protest against the Israeli president's visit to Cyprus and following public comments by party officials regarding Cyprus-Israel relations.
DISY said it disagrees with what it described as an approach based on ideological considerations, arguing that strategic partnerships built by the Republic of Cyprus should not be undermined.
Foreign policy and regional role
The party also said Cyprus should continue to act as a credible interlocutor in the region while maintaining its humanitarian and peace-building role.
According to DISY, the country's international relationships should support efforts to strengthen its position within Europe and the wider Eastern Mediterranean.
Focus on national interests
Concluding its statement, DISY said foreign policy decisions should be guided by national interests, geopolitical realities and the objective of enhancing Cyprus' regional and European standing.
