Greek Orthodox Patriarchate: Syria's future must reflect identity

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
9 Dec 2024 19:27

The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch affirms Syria's resilience and calls for unity and self-restraint as the country faces a pivotal moment in its history.

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Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and all the East John X folds hands as he waits for Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov for a meeting in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, December 5, 2017. (AP)

The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch of All the East confirmed on Monday that Syria will remain steadfast despite all the historical challenges it has faced, as "God is in its midst."

The Patriarchate explained that Syria is "at a new crossroads in its history, with the eyes of all focused on a bright future that every Syrian dreams of," hoping that this future will reflect Syria's identity as "the land of civilization and the cradle of history."

It added that this phase "requires wisdom, solidarity, and the pooling of efforts," and emphasized that it will continue its mission of serving humanity and promoting peace and harmony among people "in a country ruled by law and democratic institutions."

The Patriarchate urged every Syrian citizen to fulfill their national duty by working to unite ranks, preserving public and private property, fostering security in their surroundings, exercising self-restraint in the face of challenges, and maintaining calm and reason.

It also called on all Syrians to "extend a hand to those responsible for the welfare of this good country," urging all relevant parties to "control violations and ensure the dignity of every citizen, so we can move together toward a brighter tomorrow."

This statement came after armed groups in Syria announced on Sunday morning that they had taken control of Damascus and prohibited access to government institutions.

Reuters reported that the new Syrian coalition confirmed it would continue its efforts "to complete the transfer of power to a transitional governing body with full executive powers."

We demand general amnesty, return of displaced: Alawite sect in Syria

The sheikhs of the Alawite Muslim Sect in Syria issued a statement addressing the recent events in the country, highlighting several key points aimed at ensuring "peace and security for the Syrian people" in the coming period.

The statement emphasized that "members of the Alawite Muslim sect in Syria have consistently supported patriotism and peace, and we remain dedicated to promoting love, peace, and legitimacy."

Secondly, it called for the issuance of a general amnesty "encompassing all segments of the Syrian people without exception" to heal wounds, move beyond tragedies, and "open a new chapter for the future of our country."

They also called for providing "sufficient guarantees for the return of displaced to their homes in safety and peace," stressing that "it is not permissible to carry weapons, except within legitimate institutions, which would remove fear and terror from the feelings of the Syrian people."

In a related context, the United Nations' Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, emphasized the widespread demand from millions of Syrians for the establishment of stable and inclusive transitional arrangements, as stated in a declaration released on Sunday.

Pedersen called on all Syrians to focus on dialogue, unity, and adherence to international humanitarian law and human rights as they work to "rebuild their nation." He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Syrian people in their efforts to achieve a stable and inclusive future.