PanARMENIAN.Net - Zareh Sinanyan, High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs, has described the situation in Syria as "chronic," expressing concern that people seem to have adapted to this state of instability. Speaking at a press conference, he addressed the ongoing clashes between the government and Kurdish forces in Syria and their impact on the Armenian community.
"Our position is that life is significantly better in Armenia. If you have the opportunity, and such opportunities do arise when peace returns periodically, then settle in the homeland, because Syria's future remains uncertain. The clashes in Aleppo are serious and involve government forces and Kurdish units," he said, according to 1lurer.am .
He added that Armenian authorities remain in constant contact with compatriots abroad and stay informed about all developments.
Sinanyan also noted that in 2025, the largest wave of repatriation continued to come from Russia. According to him, the next largest groups were from the Middle East-Syria, Lebanon, and Iran-followed by communities from the U.S., Argentina, France, and other countries, as reported by Sputnik Armenia.
"Repatriation has not seen sharp rises or declines in numbers. The highest increase occurred during 2022-2023, linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict," he said.
According to Sinanyan, the Repatriation and Integration Center continues its work, but large-scale repatriation is essential for the state.
"It's right for Armenians to live in Armenia. I say this knowing that the overwhelming majority of the diaspora will not move to Armenia, even under the best conditions. But there is a critical segment that must come and settle in the Republic of Armenia, because we face a dangerously uncertain demographic future unless we increase the country's population," he added.
He emphasized that other countries' experience shows financial support is one of the tools to encourage repatriation. Sinanyan believes that a moment will come when Armenia, in light of its national security concerns, will focus on reshaping its demographic outlook, especially as birth rates show entirely different trends.
A few days ago, Syria's Ministry of Defense announced a ceasefire in Aleppo following several days of intense clashes with Kurdish groups. At least 21 civilians were killed in the fighting, which involved government forces and Kurdish units. According to Western media, the Syrian army recently completed operations in Aleppo's Sheikh Maqsoud district, regaining control over large parts of the city, including areas previously held by Kurdish forces.
Source: PanArmenian.Net
