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FCO Minister comments on mortar attack on Nunciature in Damascus

Statement by the Foreign Office Minister for the Middle East Hugh Robertson

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

On 7 November 2013, the British Ambassador to the Holy See Nigel Baker delivered the following message from Mr Robertson to the Holy See Deputy Secretary for Relations with States, Monsignor Antoine Camilleri:

I heard with great concern about the mortar attack on the Apostolic Nunciature in Damascus. I am pleased to hear that there were no casualties.

The Nunciature is carrying out important work, providing a voice for those under attack, on both sides of the conflict, and working towards peace. The prayer vigil for Syria, led by His Holiness Pope Francis, was a strong signal of the desire for peace and reconciliation in the region. The Christian community is an integral element of Syrian society, and it is important that they are fully involved in any talks on the future of Syria.

Her Majesty’s Government is also striving for a pacific resolution to the conflict, and, working with our international partners, is encouraging all sides to attend the forthcoming Geneva II talks.

Please pass on my best regards to the Apostolic Nuncio in Damascus.

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Published 8 November 2013