Italy keen to organize evacuations from Syria Foreign Minister says

Italy is preparing to organize evacuations from Syria as anti-Assad Islamist rebels make significant advances toward Damascus.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the plans following a remote meeting with Italian ambassadors across the Middle East, Moscow, and the Holy See, Caliber.Az reports per  İtalian media.

Tajani stated that the embassy is ready to arrange evacuations and that there have already been requests for assistance. The Italian government is committed to ensuring the safe departure of citizens, both through national and UN initiatives. He reassured that all those who wish to leave Syria will be able to do so but did not provide specifics on the evacuation process.

Tajani briefed Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the developments in Syria, which has been embroiled in conflict for nearly 14 years, causing repeated refugee crises. He emphasized that the immediate concern is the safety of the approximately 300 Italians living in Syria. While the situation remains under control, Tajani confirmed that the embassy is in contact with all Italian citizens in Syria, many of whom have managed to leave, and assured their safety.

The foreign minister spoke after discussing political and diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Syria with ambassadors from several countries, including those based in Damascus, Doha, Tel Aviv, Amman, Beirut, Tehran, Baghdad, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Riyadh, Ankara, Moscow, and the Holy See. The meeting focused on finding a political solution to the crisis, emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring the safety of minorities, particularly Christians.

Tajani reiterated Italy's support for ongoing peace discussions in Doha and expressed hope that these talks would lead to a political resolution. He emphasized the importance of preserving Syria’s stability for the broader Middle East. Additionally, Tajani confirmed that Italy maintains constant communication with its G7 partners and has made direct requests to Türkiye, Russia, and the UN to ensure the protection of vulnerable populations in the region.

By Vafa Guliyeva