Dendias: Syria is a theatre for a merciless proxy war, its territorial integrity must be respected

Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias highlighted at the 5th Brussels Conference on “Supporting the future of Syria and the Region” that the East Mediterranean country remains a theatre of "proxy war."

"Since the civil war in Syria officially broke out in 2011, the devastating
armed conflict has taken an enormously high toll in civilian casualties," he said.

"Syria is still the theater of a merciless proxy war," the foreign minister said.

"Syria should cease being the playground for foreign interests and agendas that have nothing to do with the welfare and future of the Syrian people and the country itself," he added.

Dendias referred to the special importance of this initiative, which took place under the auspices of the EU and the UN, in order to reduce the effects of the ongoing tragedy that afflicts the Syrian people, ten years after the outbreak of the war.

"Greece, from the very first moment of the crisis, has received thousands of Syrian refugees, providing them with social and humanitarian assistance," he continued.

"To this day, we continue to carry a burden far exceeding our capacities," Dendias added.

He also reiterated Greece's support for the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria and his efforts to find a political solution that would ensure the country's territorial integrity and the security of its entire population.

Dendias stressed that this must be in accordance with UN Security Council resolution 2254.

He stressed, at the same time, that Greece remains firmly committed to promoting peace and stability in the wider Eastern Mediterranean region.

"Greece, as sincere proponent and active supporter of peace, security, stability and development in the broader region of Eastern Mediterranean, is fully committed to the efforts for reaching a political solution to the Syrian crisis," he said.

Finally, Dendias stated that Greece in a "symbolic gesture of solidarity [...] is ready to pledge, again this year, a symbolic contribution."

READ MORE: Dendias: We consider our relations with Syria and Libya “extremely important.”