Patriarch Kirill Voices Support for Syria, Iraq in face of Terrorist Organizations

MOSCOW, (ST)-Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and all Russia and head of the Orthodox Church has voiced solidarity with the Syrian and Iraqi peoples who both are suffering the crimes of terrorist organizations.

During a meeting on Monday in Moscow with archbishop Agnatius , representative of Patriarch Youhanna X Yazigi, Kirill condemned the terrorists’ attempts to oppress and displace the citizens of the two countries, including the Christians, from their historical places.

 Regarding the crisis in Syria, Kirill said “we know there are difficult living conditions in Syria, but I’m sure the Syrians will surpass these difficulties,” pointing out that “solving the issues facing the world, the Orthodox Church and man himself necessitates unifying the efforts of all.”

The Patriarch reiterated that the Russian Orthodox Church will continue to provide assistance as to attain, stability, peace and security in Syria.  

 On his part, Bishop Agnatius of the Diocese of France as well as Western and Southern Europe for the Greek Orthodox, Patriarchate of Antioch and All East, said that “the patriarchate pins much hope on the good and strong ties that link it to the patriarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church and on the role it plays in support for the crises-hit peoples in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and the entire region.”

Hamda Mustafa