Lana Zochiou (MFA): “We are monitoring the situation in Al-Suqaylabiyah, a predominantly Greek Orthodox city, with grave concern”

The Greek government’s profound concern regarding recent attacks against Greek Orthodox Christians in Syria was conveyed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Lana Zochiou, during a press briefing for diplomatic correspondents on Tuesday, March 31.

The spokesperson focused specifically on the prevailing conditions in Seleucia ad Belum (Seleukobelos), also known by its Arabic name, Al-Suqaylabiyah.

Ms. Zochiou underscored the city’s strictly Greek Orthodox character, noting that Athens is closely monitoring regional developments with a primary focus on the protection of religious communities.

Referring to the recent acts of violence in the area, she noted that the Greek side has taken note of the Syrian government’s announcements regarding an investigation into the incidents; however, she made it clear that further information, absolute clarity, and accountability are required.

Within the framework of Syria’s stability and recovery, Ms. Zochiou highlighted the importance of an inclusive political transition. She placed particular emphasis on the protection of all Syrian citizens, regardless of religious or ethnic background, with a special mention of women’s rights.

“Syria’s wealth lies in the diversity and pluralism of its society,” she remarked, pointing out that the Christian element constitutes a historical and integral part of the country’s social fabric.

Greece’s Role and International Commitments

It was emphasized that Greece remains a supporter of Syria, utilizing both the bilateral cooperation framework and its institutional role as a member of the European Union and the United Nations Security Council.

The spokesperson acknowledged the progress made but clarified that Athens does not overlook existing challenges. She further stressed that Greek diplomacy expects full adherence to the assurances provided by the Syrian government to the international community.

Statement by Lana Zochiou:

“We are monitoring the situation in Al-Suqaylabiyah, a city with a predominantly Greek Orthodox population, with grave concern.

We take note of the Syrian government’s announcement regarding the investigation into the recent incidents of violence in the city. Further information, clarity, and, certainly, accountability are required.

We support the need for an inclusive political transition and for the protection of all Syrians, including women, without discrimination based on religious or ethnic origin, as a prerequisite for stability and recovery.

Syria’s wealth lies in the diversity and pluralism of its society, and Christians constitute a historical and integral part of multicultural Syrian society.

Greece stands by Syria and offers support, both at a bilateral level and in its capacity as a member state of the European Union and a member of the United Nations Security Council.

Greece recognizes the progress that has been achieved, but we do not overlook the challenges. We expect the assurances provided by the Syrian Government to be upheld.”

Read more about the Greeks of Syria at the following link: Antiochian Greek Christians