16/05/2023

US State Department Special Envoy Nicholas Granger visits Syriac-Assyrian parties in North and East Syria to discuss political solutions and community challenges

ZALIN, Syria — On Monday, US State Department Special Envoy to North and East Syria Nicholas Granger visited the headquarters of the Syriac Union Party (SUP) in Zalin (Qamishli), North and East Syria, as a part of his larger visit to the region.

Granger was warmly received by SUP Co-Chairs Nazira Goreya and Sanharib Barsom, alongside Rubel Bahho, a member of the SUP Executive Committee. Present at the meeting was a delegation from the Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO), including ADO Deputy Head Bashir Saadi and ADO officials Sara Barsom and Quryaqus Goreya.

The discussions revolved around a range of issues pertaining to a potential political solution in Syria and the latest developments in this regard. Emphasizing the importance of dialogue among various political parties, the participants aimed to foster broader understandings and encourage participation within the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).

Granger praised the consensus achieved among the Syriac-Assyrian parties and expressed hope for similar unity among Syrian political parties, as it would significantly contribute to the activation of the political process.

Furthermore, the meeting focused on the unique situation in the Khabur River Valley and the challenges faced by the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) communities residing in the region. They explored potential strategies to support the villages and ensure the safe return of their residents.

By engaging in these discussions, the visit aimed to strengthen cooperation, enhance understanding, and promote a collaborative approach to address the complex issues confronting North and East Syria.