“No minorities, only majorities” in a united Syria

The National Salvation Front in Syria, an organization opposing Bashar al-Assad's regime, issued a statement on Monday addressing recent visits to Damascus by foreign officials, including the French and German foreign ministers. 

The group emphasized the need for respect for Syrian sovereignty and outlined its vision for a future democratic Syria.

The statement welcomed the renewed international attention on Syria, which the group described as overdue after years of neglect during which the country endured destruction, mass displacement, and crimes against humanity. The Front expressed optimism about Syrians reclaiming their sovereignty and taking steps toward rebuilding their nation.

“Syria has finally come under the scope of international interest,” the statement noted, adding that Syrians are on a path to restoring freedom and sovereignty over their territories.

Criticism of Foreign Visits Without Coordination

The National Salvation Front called on foreign diplomats and officials to respect diplomatic norms by obtaining prior approval from representatives of the Syrian state before engaging in activities with political implications. The group specifically criticized France’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, for discussing political matters with religious leaders in Damascus.

“France, the cradle of secularism, must adhere to its principles by limiting political discussions to representatives of the Syrian state and those involved in political affairs,” the statement said. It added that viewing Syrian society through a sectarian lens is reminiscent of colonial-era policies that have historically destabilized the Middle East.

The Front also highlighted the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch in Damascus as an example of Syria's longstanding harmony among religious communities, cautioning against external powers exploiting sectarian divides.

Vision for a Unified, Democratic Syria

The National Salvation Front outlined its aspirations for a new Syria built on the principles of equality and citizenship, rejecting sectarian divisions and promoting a multicultural society.

“In Syria, we have no minorities; we have a majority and other majorities,” the statement asserted, likening Syrian society to a rainbow, where every color is essential. The group emphasized that Syria’s true strength lies not only in its geopolitical position and resources but in its diverse and harmonious society.

The Front stressed the importance of establishing a rule-of-law-based state that respects all citizens equally, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

Religious leaders in Syria were urged to avoid involvement in political agendas, particularly during what the group described as a sensitive and dangerous period for the country.

“Religious figures should focus on national efforts to save Syria rather than engaging with opportunists or external interests,” the statement said, cautioning against meeting with local or foreign politicians under current circumstances.

The statement expressed the Front’s hope for strong strategic relations with Germany, France, and the European Union. It thanked Germany for hosting over one million Syrian refugees and called for European expertise and technology to help rebuild Syria.

The group also urged European states to support efforts to reveal mass graves, implement transitional justice, and hold war criminals accountable, including the confiscation of properties and funds looted by individuals like Bashar al-Assad and Rifaat al-Assad. It called for these assets to be returned to the Syrian state treasury.

“We look forward to a future Syria that prioritizes national interests and develops equal bilateral relations based on mutual respect and sovereignty,” the statement concluded.