DISY is ready not only to respond to developments but to help shape them, party leader Annita Demetriou said on Friday, highlighting the Cyprus issue and the cost-of-living crisis as two of the country's most pressing challenges.
Addressing the party's Nicosia District Council, Demetriou described a settlement of the Cyprus problem as the foremost national priority, stressing the need for calm, strategic thinking, unity and political responsibility.
Focus on Cyprus talks
Demetriou said DISY stands ready to support any initiative capable of leading to the resumption of meaningful negotiations.
According to the party leader, renewed talks remain the only path towards the reunification of Cyprus, free of occupation troops, guarantees and intervention rights.
She also stressed the importance of close coordination with Greece as diplomatic efforts continue.
Internal consultations under way
Demetriou said the party's internal policy discussions are continuing through meetings of the Political Bureau, the party's Cyprus issue working group and consultations with elected representatives from occupied municipalities and communities.
She said dialogue is now expanding to district level as DISY prepares its positions on key national issues.
Cost-of-living concerns
Turning to domestic challenges, Demetriou criticised the government's management of rising prices, describing its approach as inadequate.
She called for targeted measures to address the cost-of-living crisis, alongside policies aimed at boosting competitiveness, economic growth, small and medium-sized enterprises and the creation of quality jobs.
Demetriou also cited a range of issues requiring urgent attention, including:
- Housing affordability.
- Traffic congestion.
- Water security.
- High electricity costs.
- Demographic challenges.
- Pension reform.
Warning against populism
The DISY leader said her party would continue to oppose populism and political toxicity from any direction.
She argued that Cyprus could not afford either political inertia or policy experimentation at a time of significant national and economic challenges.
Looking ahead
Demetriou described the outcome of the recent elections as a strong endorsement of DISY's direction and thanked party members and voters for their support.
She also announced a new series of visits to local party committees involving district leadership teams and MPs, aimed at maintaining direct contact with communities across the country.
"DISY is here. More organised. More determined. More ready," she said.
