Newsroom
The Israeli ambassador to Cyprus has pushed back against what he described as growing rhetoric portraying Israeli investments and the presence of Israelis on the island in a negative light, warning that such language risks fueling harmful stereotypes.
In a written statement Monday, Oren Anolik said cooperation between Cyprus and Israel is built on “shared values, mutual respect, and close friendship,” while stressing that Israelis living and investing in Cyprus have become part of the island’s social and economic fabric.
His comments come amid public debate in recent weeks over foreign investment, property ownership, and the increasing visibility of Israeli business activity in Cyprus.
Anolik said statements attempting to link Israeli business interests in Cyprus to threats or excessive influence were “disturbing,” adding that the rhetoric appeared to single out a specific community.
“Thousands of Israelis have chosen Cyprus as a second homeland,” he said, noting that many have invested in businesses, created jobs, and raised families on the island.
The ambassador also took issue with the use of terms such as “takeover” and “uncontrolled influence,” arguing that such language echoes longstanding stereotypes about foreign economic domination and could contribute to anti-Semitic sentiment.
Without referring to specific individuals or statements, Anolik called on both politicians and the public to avoid divisive rhetoric and instead support an environment that welcomes investors and residents regardless of nationality or origin.
He said Israel remains a close ally of Cyprus and expressed hope that the relationship between the two countries would continue to deepen through cooperation and friendship.
Relations between Cyprus and Israel have expanded significantly over the past decade, particularly in the areas of energy, defense, tourism and technology. Israeli investment in Cyprus has also grown, especially in the real estate and business sectors, while the island has become an increasingly popular destination for Israelis seeking to relocate, invest, or establish companies.
