March 29, 2024

Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs on the recent massacre in Darayya, Syria, 29.08.12

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, Dr Erato Kozakou-Marcoullis, stated Wednesday 29.8.12 in response to the recent of killings civilians in the city of Darayya, in Syria:

“I am extremely disturbed by reports of the recent, brutal massacre in Darayya, Syria, involving civilian population, including women and young children. If the reports are confirmed, then I would characterize these killings as a heinous act, amounting to crimes against humanity, which should be investigated immediately in an independent and impartial manner.

The humanitarian situation in Syria is abhorrent and the recent reports of atrocities in Darayya are a case in point. The human rights of the Syrian people have to be protected, while those responsible for violating them should be held accountable. I call again upon both sides in Syria to immediately and fully cooperate with the UN and Arab League Joint Special Representative, Mr Lakhdar Brahimi.”