Cyprus says 5,500 Syrians returned since end of hostilities
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – About 5,500 Syrians have voluntarily returned from Cyprus to Syria since the end of hostilities, as Cypriot authorities prepare for further returns and support reintegration efforts, the country’s Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides said on Sunday.
Speaking to the Cyprus Mail, Ioannides said that the returns were taking place as Cyprus strengthens contacts with Damascus and supports the lifting of European Union sanctions on Syria.
He added that Syrians returning to the country had taken different routes, with some withdrawing asylum applications or giving up protection status, while others had their applications rejected or protection revoked in individual cases.
Cyprus is working with the International Organization for Migration on a reintegration program aimed at helping returning Syrians settle back into society, Ioannides said.
“We want to make sure there is a smooth reintegration into society,” he said.
The Cypriot official rejected claims that Syria as a whole remains too unsafe for returns, distinguishing between security conditions and difficult living conditions.
He said Cyprus does not intend to remove Syrians en masse. Under a scheme introduced last year, one member of a Syrian family can remain in Cyprus with a work permit while other family members voluntarily return to Syria.
Cyprus has also sought to expand its cooperation with Damascus as part of broader efforts to support Syria’s recovery, while addressing migration pressures on the island.
Ioannides indicated that the government wants to manage migration through legal channels and ensure that returning Syrians can reintegrate into their communities.