Syria's Assad meets bishops, promises new secular constitution
June 17, 2016
Syrian President Bashar Assad has met with the leaders of the Syriac Catholic Church, and announced that he plans a new constitution that will ensure the rights of religious minorities, the Fides news service reports.
Assad met with Syriac Patriarch Ignace Youssif III and six bishops, briefing them on his plans for the new constitution. He said that he intends to make it a thoroughly secular document, removing all references to religion. He also mentioned his determination to resist aggression by the Islamic State, and said that all players in the Middle East should oppose the jihadist ideology.
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Posted by: Randal Mandock -
Jun. 18, 2016 8:34 AM ET USA
This is in line with Assad's true nature. It is also the reason why the West wants him out of power. A moderating voice separating two anti-Christian ideologies. One the one side is the virtual "red line in the sand." On the other is the head-chopping vanguard of the Saracens. Neither side has a will to build up the ancient heritage of the region. Theirs is a will only to destroy. For what purpose? Ideology, control, conformity. On the one hand, "diversity", on the other "surrender" to Allah.
