Bashar Assad Promises to Restore the Armenian Church in Deir ez-Zor

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad held a constructive and warm meeting with Armenians settled in Armenia, including Syrian-Armenians and Armenian businessmen. The group that traveled from Armenia was led by the President of the Syrian-Armenian community in Armenia, George Barseghyan, who shared details of the meeting in an interview with "Armenpress".

George Barseghyan noted that the activity began after the appointment of a new Syrian ambassador in Armenia. The new embassy staff started to actively work with the Syrian Armenian community in Armenia. At that time, the administration of the Syrian-Armenian community was elected, led by George Barseghyan.

“It was proposed that this administration enhance the Syria-Armenia ties. The first step was to request a meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. There was a very quick positive response. A meeting was scheduled, not only with the President of Syria but also other senior officials of the country. The administration formed a delegation that included Syrian Armenians, Armenian businessmen, and representatives of the business sector,” said Barseghyan.

He observed that the situation in Syria seems to be resolving. Fortunately, President Bashar al-Assad's government was able to overcome the existing difficulties. The United States is considering withdrawing its troops and is already taking practical steps. Several Arab countries are also contemplating opening embassies in Syria. All of this indicates a recovery for Syria, and substantial economic plans are anticipated for this purpose.

“The Syrian government is inclined to give priority in these programs to those countries that have stood by it during these years. Among them is Armenia, which did not close its embassy during the years of war, always maintained state connections, and sent aid to Syria. In the upcoming recovery period, priority will be given to Armenians in business programs and reconstruction efforts,” said Barseghyan. He emphasized that the Syrian government attaches great importance to the Armenian community, as has always been stated. It is no coincidence that President Bashar Assad pledged to restore the Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs in Deir ez-Zor using his resources.

During the visit to Syria, meetings were held with the Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament, and companies from the business sector. Directions were outlined for further cooperation.

“Our visit had several objectives. Firstly, to activate and strengthen the ties between Armenia and Syria. Additionally, we wanted to express our support for the President of Syria and his government. Armenia is one of the unique countries, where a large portion of society supports the current government of Syria, as we were able to achieve significant success during its governance. It was a proper occasion to show our support. After all, we have an Armenian community in Syria, be it in Aleppo, Damascus, Qamishli, or Latakia. Local Armenians have very good relations with the authorities, and we should also think about this,” Barseghyan stated.

The meeting with Bashar Assad was marked by the presentation of a symbolic gift. A model of a monument located in Armenia was presented to the Syrian president, symbolizing Armenian gratitude to the people of Syria for the significant assistance provided during the Armenian Genocide years. The monument, built with the funds of Armenians in the diaspora, is situated on the road leading to Zvartnots Airport. It depicts the map of Syria, the Armenian eagle, and a column of eternity, on which the year 1915 is inscribed. The unofficial opening of the monument occurred in 2013.

At the end of December, Syrian President Bashar Assad welcomed a delegation of Syrian Armenians settled in Armenia, headed by George Barseghyan, who represents the Armenian community. During the meeting, discussions took place regarding the current situation in Syria and the country's reconstruction process. The businessmen expressed a desire to participate in the reconstruction efforts in Syria. The Syrian president emphasized that the principled stance of the friendly Republic of Armenia and the support provided during the entire course of the terrorist war unleashed against the country allows Armenia to be one of the leading countries with a legitimate right to participate in the reconstruction efforts in Syria.