WASHINGTON — The United States and the international community should assist Syria as it “starts a new chapter in its rich history,” said Bishop A. Elias Zaidan of the Maronite Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace.

 

“In yet another dramatic development in the Middle East, after enduring more than a decade of bloody civil war, Syria is undergoing a national political transition that will surely impact the entire region. Cardinal Mario Zenari, Apostolic Nuncio in Syria, expressed his profound relief that the transition was relatively peaceful, while also noting the arduous task ahead for the Syrian people saying, ‘Thank God, this transition happened without bloodshed, without the carnage that was feared. Now the path ahead is steep—those who have taken power have promised to respect everyone and to build a new Syria. We hope they will keep these promises, but of course, the road ahead remains very difficult.’

 

“I echo Cardinal Zenari’s sentiments on the transition and the aspirations of the Syrian people are clear: the people of Syria want a government in Damascus that will respect and defend human rights, especially the religious freedom of minorities, uphold the rule of law, and promote economic and civil society development throughout the country. As Syria starts a new chapter in its rich history, I urge the United States and the international community to keep the people of Syria in prayer and to closely monitor the situation so that all aid organizations are able to reach those most in need.”