Foreign Ministry urges Bulgarians in Syria not to leave their homes

In connection with the seriously deteriorated security situation in Syria in recent hours, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that Bulgarian citizens residing in the country not leave their homes until public order is normalized, the ministry said on December 8.

Reports on December 8 said that Syrian rebels had captured Damascus and the rebels said that Basha al-Assad had fled Syria.

The ministry said that the Bulgarian embassy in Damascus was in constant contact with Bulgarian citizens and their family members who have sought assistance in their evacuation from Syria.

“The security situation is being monitored with increased attention and, if appropriate, the necessary actions will be taken to ensure the safe departure of those who have expressed their desire to do so.”

Fifteen Bulgarian citizens and their family members had by noon on December 8 sought assistance in their evacuation from the country.

According to local authorities, a total of 71 Bulgarian citizens are living in Syria on a long-term or permanent basis, the ministry said.

(Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs)