High Property Committee of North and East Syria signs document of understanding regarding return of Christian properties in Raqqa

RAQQA, Syria — Amid ongoing efforts to safeguard the property and heritage of minority communities in Raqqa, the High Property Committee of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES), which plays a pivotal role in managing and preserving the properties of absentees from the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) and Armenian communities, received a significant transfer of Christian properties on Tuesday.

The transfer, which was held at the Armenian Catholic Church of the Martyrs, marked a pivotal moment for the Christians communities in Raqqa. In attendance were Hazni Sumi, head of the Real Estate Affairs Office of the Internal Security Forces (ISF), Siham Quryo, Co-Chair of the Democratic Peoples’ Council, Co-Chair of the Democratic People’s Council for the North and East Syria Region, Abdul Salam Hamsourk, Co-Chair of the Executive Council of Raqqa Province, members of the Democratic Islam Conference and other religious figures, along with tribal leaders and community figures.

A formal document of understanding was signed, outlining the procedures and timelines for the handover of several properties, including churches such as the Church of the Martyrs and the Church of the Virgin Mary for the Armenian Orthodox, and the Church of al-Bisharah for the Armenian Catholics. Additionally, properties and cemeteries belonging to the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people. Other Armenian properties in Raqqa and Tabqa are slated for transfer in the coming months.

Armin Mardo, head of the High Property Committee, stated the historic significance of the transfer of religious properties, emphasizing their role in fostering the return of displaced communities who can then practice their faith freely.

Quryo echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of the document in facilitating the return of absentees to reclaim their properties.

Sheikh Muhammad Nour al-Rawi, an official in Raqqa, emphasized the commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring the rights of all community members to practice their faith without constraint.

Following the ceremony, officials from the High Property Committee ventured to other designated sites to oversee the handover process, marking a significant step towards preserving our community’s heritage and identity in Raqqa.