Russia: Lavrov discusses Middle East with Patriarch of Syriac Orthodox Church

Speaking at a meeting in Moscow with Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, acknowledged Russia's role in the Middle East, Wednesday. “We know, Russia has a big role to play in the area," he said. The patriarch praised Moscow’s role in Syria saying "Russia can help us not only to defeat terrorism, but defend [against] terrorism in order to establish peace in Syria." Lavrov said it was vital to be in contact with "various faiths in the Middle East" because "the situation in the region is deeply troubling." He went on to say that there was a "need to do everything to prevent an inter-religious and inter-civilizational split in this key area." Lavrov warned that threats are arising "in Libya, Iraq, Yemen and other parts of the Middle East where there is a serious risk that terrorists may strengthen their position." Lavrov added that the region is "the cradle of Christianity" and it is important "to save the fabric of civilisation in this region and not let it break."