Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East welcomed Mrs. Thessalia Salina Shyampo, the Special Representative of the Republic of Cyprus for Religious Freedom in the Middle East, at the Patriarchal Residence in Damascus. She was accompanied by Mr. Michael Hadji Kyrou, the Cypriot Ambassador to Damascus, and a delegation.
During the meeting, Mrs. Shyampo conveyed the warm regards and appreciation of Cypriot President Mr. Nikos Christodoulides for the significant role of the Antiochian Patriarchate in addressing the evolving realities in Syria, Lebanon, and the broader Middle East. In response, the Patriarch expressed his love and prayers for the Cypriot President, the Church, and the people of Cyprus, emphasizing the deep historical ties between the Church of Antioch and Cyprus.
The discussion touched upon Syria’s transitional phase and the critical role of the Republic of Cyprus in supporting political efforts toward the right direction. These efforts aim to achieve the preservation of the rights of all Syrians based on human dignity and equality, safeguarded by a free and democratic constitution developed with the participation of all segments of Syrian society. The conversation also highlighted the need to support humanitarian initiatives to alleviate the challenging conditions faced by Syrians, including lifting economic sanctions and providing humanitarian aid on various levels.
The importance of electing a new president in Lebanon to ensure the proper functioning of its constitutional institutions was also emphasized. This would support Lebanon’s recovery and preserve the nation’s dignity and the well-being of its citizens.
The meeting concluded with a shared hope for peace to prevail throughout the Middle East, bringing calm, prosperity, and stability to its people.
