Armenian-Syrian relations should develop

PanARMENIAN.Net - Relations between Armenia and Syria are traditionally friendly, an Armenian expert said.



"The causes date back to the beginning of the 20th century when Armenian Genocide survivors settled in Syria and became one of the strongest Armenian communities. By mid 20th century, nearly 200 thousand Armenians lived in Aleppo. It's not surprising that Syrian President Hafez al-Assad visited soviet Armenia in 1970ies," orientalist Suren Manukyan told PanARMENIAN.Net



"However, some problems emerged lately. Yerevan-Damascus relations were cooling simultaneously with improvement of Ankara-Damascus ties. Although it was not so obvious and leaders of both states continued assuring that there is no disagreement, cooperation did not develop. Syrian Ambassador to Yerevan was demoted in rank and became Charge d-Affaires in 2002. Armenia had to do the same in 2004," he said.



"Economic relations are not active due to the absence of overland communication. Introduction of visa system by Armenia hampers tourists' flows. Furthermore, Syria imposed some restrictions on marking the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day. Maybe the visit of Syrian President will help clarify a number of issues and improve relations," Manukyan concluded.