The Republic of Cyprus continues its efforts to reduce immigration flows through the refugee return home program. However, the Government fears that the situation may worsen due to the tense situation in the Middle East.

According to the Migration Service, 7,602 people returned to their countries in the first nine months of 2024. Most of the returns were made to India, Nigeria, Bangladesh and Pakistan. As for asylum applications, the number has reached 5,644, of which 3,922 are from Syria. This is followed by applications from Iran, Afghanistan and Somalia.
However, the main “thorn” for the Republic of Cyprus remains the problem of Syrian refugees and their return to safe areas, while the Republic of Cyprus requires a reassessment of the territories of Syria in order to begin the return.

Indeed, against the background of the arrests of Syrian immigrants in Limassol and Paphos for their involvement in the financing of a terrorist organization, the Minister of Justice is sending a message to Brussels asking to hear the request of Cyprus.

The time has come to reassess the situation in Syria so that the possible recognition of some of its areas as safe will allow the return of Syrian citizens to them, especially those who are considered to pose a threat to public order and National security of the member states,” the Minister of Justice said. Marios Harziotis.

According to some estimates, there are more than 25,000 Syrians living in Cyprus today.

A source: alphanews.live

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