NICOSIA, Cyprus — Cyprus is poised to assist in the dismantling of Syria’s remaining stockpiles of chemical weapons and is committed to helping locate individuals who have gone missing throughout the lengthy conflict, according to a statement made by the nation’s Foreign Minister, Constantinos Kombos, on Saturday.
Minister Kombos highlighted that Cyprus’ willingness to contribute stems from its own historical experiences, notably its support for the removal of chemical weapons in Syria eleven years ago, as well as the ongoing quest for resolution regarding numerous individuals who disappeared during the violence between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots in the 1960s, as well as during Turkey’s invasion in 1974.
In 2013, Cyprus served as the operational hub for a mission led by the United Nations and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), aimed at the elimination and disposal of Syria’s chemical weapons.
Given its geographical proximity—just 65 miles away—Kombos stated that Cyprus has a vested interest in the future of Syria, noting that developments within the country could directly affect Cyprus, particularly concerning the possibility of increased migration and threats from terrorism and extremism. He expressed that there are serious apprehensions among regional leaders regarding the security situation in Syria, especially the potential rise of extremist factions similar to the Islamic State in the context of a fragmented society.
Additionally, Kombos pointed out the need to address new waves of migration originating from Syria, as well as the imperative of guaranteeing the safety and rights of women and minority groups, including Druze, Christians, Jews, and Kurds, to maintain the cultural diversity of Syria.
He emphasized that this is crucial, particularly amidst fears of social and demographic alterations under the guise of “security” measures, which could further complicate the nation’s stability.
The escalation of drug production, specifically the stimulant Captagon, linked to human and arms trafficking networks, was another concern raised by Kombos.
The Foreign Minister called for an immediate cessation of attacks against Kurdish populations, recognizing the essential role that Kurdish forces have played in combating extremist threats over the past decade.
Kombos advocated for a Syrian-led initiative that would transition the nation towards a more inclusive democracy, ensuring that the legitimate demands of the Kurds are incorporated, while simultaneously preserving the unity and territorial integrity of Syria.
Saleh Muslim, a Kurdish Presidential Council member, conveyed in a recent interview that the Kurdish aim is primarily centered on achieving “equality” through the establishment of rights applicable to all citizens within any democratic framework he envisions.
He articulated that a potential governance model might grant the Kurds some level of autonomy within a federal system.
Importantly, he stressed the necessity of guaranteeing democratic rights for all Syrians, including Kurdish individuals.
Muslim also raised concerns that the Kurdish-majority city of Kobani, located near the Turkish border, faces significant threats from Turkish-supported factions and accused Turkey of attempting to annex the area.
In response, Kombos urged the international community to be vigilant in ensuring that Turkey’s influence in Syria does not exacerbate the already precarious situation.
“Whatever the future landscape in Syria, it will have a direct and far-reaching impact on the region, the European Union, and the broader international community,” Kombos remarked.