The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the fall of the Assad regime in Syria and called for a smooth transition of power to a democratic government.
According to the statement, Greece applauds the downfall of the authoritarian Assad regime in Syria.
However, it emphasizes that there is an immediate need to ensure peace in the country and a smooth transition of power to a democratically legitimized government, based on the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.
In its announcement, the ministry especially emphasizes the importance of protecting civilians, including religious minorities. Given the fact that there is a large community of Christian faith in Syria including Orthodox, Copts, and Catholics the safety of these people greatly concerns Greece.
Greece’s announcement highlights that it supports Syria’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, emphasizing however, that special care must be taken to protect all civilians, including religious minorities, as well as Syria’s religious monuments and rich cultural heritage.
The ministry also stresses that the return to democratic normalcy should mark the end of refugee flows from the war-torn country and pave the way for the safe return of Syrian refugees to their homes.
Furthermore, the announcement emphasizes Greece’s commitment as a member of the United Nations Security Council and with strong ties to the Arab world, to contribute towards the swiftest possible restoration of peace and prosperity in Syria.
It should be noted that the majority of asylum seekers reaching Greece’s borders have been Syrian nationals fleeing their country. The new state of affairs in Syria could potentially mark the beginning of return migration provided that peace is restored in the country.
