Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East, along with Patriarch Joseph Absi of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church and representatives of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius Ephrem II, welcomed the French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and his delegation at the Patriarchal Residence in Damascus.
The discussion centered on the current situation in Syria, with a focus on the importance of building a democratic society founded on principles of citizenship, equality, and human dignity. The participants also highlighted the necessity of promoting education, fostering a culture of learning, and engaging in a national dialogue that is inclusive of all segments of society, free from sectarian or political biases. This dialogue should ultimately lead to collaborative efforts in drafting a constitution that safeguards the rights and responsibilities of all citizens.
The meeting underscored the role of France and the international community in providing support to the Syrian people during this critical period, as well as the significance of facilitating a political transition that ensures the representation of all societal groups. Additionally, the conversation emphasized the importance of establishing a legal, constitutional, and educational framework for citizenship, as well as the need for a clear timeline for subsequent phases that aim to strengthen stability, promote civil harmony, and address the increasing material needs of the population.
