Chrisis Pantelides, the DIKO MP leading Cyprus’ chapter of the Israel Allies Foundation, has defended the initiative, saying it is designed to strengthen Cyprus-Israel relations while also advancing Cyprus’ interests on the international stage.
Speaking to Politis Radio, Pantelides said the foundation is an international, non-governmental and non-profit network bringing together parliamentary groups from 68 legislatures worldwide, including groups in 25 EU member states, the European Parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.
Closer Cyprus-Israel cooperation
Pantelides said there is scope for further development of the strategic relationship between Cyprus and Israel, particularly in the eastern Mediterranean.
He argued that cooperation with Israel has already benefited Cyprus in areas including defence and security, helping strengthen the capabilities of:
- The National Guard
- The Police
- The Fire Service
- Other security agencies
He also pointed to cooperation in healthcare, including the treatment of Cypriot patients in Israel and Israeli investment in Cyprus.
Promoting Cyprus’ positions abroad
According to Pantelides, participation in the network is not solely about supporting closer relations with Israel.
He said the organisation provides opportunities to promote Cyprus’ positions internationally, including on:
- Illegal investments in the occupied areas of Cyprus
- The need to end the Turkish occupation
- Cyprus’ strategic role in the eastern Mediterranean
- Regional energy issues
- A Cyprus settlement based on UN resolutions and high-level agreements
Pantelides said the Cypriot group has already raised concerns over investments in the occupied north and hopes to use the network to strengthen international awareness of the issue.
No obligations or political trade-offs
The DIKO MP said the Cyprus chapter was created following his own initiative and discussions with like-minded colleagues.
He explained that the group will engage in information-sharing, communication with parliamentarians in other countries and campaigns promoting issues of common interest.
Pantelides stressed that participation does not involve formal commitments or political quid pro quos.
“There are no obligations. There is a political framework for cooperation,” he said.
Funding and expenses
Addressing questions about funding, Pantelides said members are currently covering costs themselves.
He stated that expenses related to the launch event, including dinner and refreshments, were paid for personally by him.
Should any future travel be funded by the foundation, he said this would be disclosed.
Pantelides also rejected suggestions that participation could influence parliamentary or political decisions, arguing it was offensive to imply that elected representatives would act contrary to the interests of Cyprus or their voters.
Comments on the Middle East
Asked about developments in the Middle East, Pantelides said Cyprus’ positions and relevant government resolutions are well known.
While acknowledging that territories remain under Israeli military control, he argued that comparisons between Cyprus and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are not appropriate because, in his view, the historical circumstances differ.
He also criticised the slogan “From the river to the sea”, saying he interprets it as a call for the elimination of the State of Israel.
