Photo by ARMENPRESS

With the situation in Syria remaining politically tense, any abrupt statement by the Syrian- Armenians or Armenia may pose a hazard to our compatriots in the country, an Armenian orientialist has said.

Director of the Oriental Studies Institute Ruben Safrastyan warned reporters on Friday that the Syrian-Armenians are often unwilling to hear their problems voiced, having very objective reasons for that.

“The media outlets have to refrain from abrupt statements in this period. The military operations in Aleppo are not likely to pose a threat to the Armenian districts at present. Our compatriots will try to remain in their houses in Syria until the end [of the struggle]. They have big concerns that they may lose everything they came by over the course of years,” he said.

Asked what position Armenia should take on the issue, Safrastyan answered that the country has to make its contribution to the current peacemaking efforts.

“But evaluating the situation around Syria, we see that Armenia is a small country to play its role. The important thing for us is to demonstrate cautiousness. We have to take a realistic stance on our position in the region,” he said, adding that he is in favor of Armenia’s pro-active policies over the Iranian issue.

Safrastyan noted in the meantime that the country’s position on the Syrian-Armenians should be convincing enough to make them feel that Armenia really gives them support.

“They must know that there is a country which, despite being small and not powerful, will do everything within its power to stand by them. Any Armenian should pin hope on his or her home country. People should have a belief that their country exists,” he added.