Syria's Christian leaders urge end to international sanctions

August 24, 2016

Three patriarchs of Damascus have issued an appeal for an end to international sanctions on their country, saying that they have increased the suffering of the civilian population, "especially the poor and working class."

The statement, issued through the AsiaNews service, is signed by Melkite Catholic Patriarch Gregory III Laham, Greek Orthodox Patriarch John X, and Syrian Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius Ephrem II. 

The international sanctions have "deepened the suffering of the Syrian people," the Christian leaders report. Although the sanctions were intended to isolate the Syrian government, they say that the practical effect has been to burden the people and to encourage others who "do not want the common good of the country."

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Syrian patriarchs call for a lifting of sanctions because they only affect the population (AsiaNews)