MEPs pledge to raise awareness of Iraqi refugee crisis in Syria

The recent influx of 1.5 million Iraqi refugees places a huge strain on Syria, a problem not sufficiently realised by the international community, said the European Parliament delegation - in Syria for its 9th interparliamentary meeting - for relations with the countries of the Mashreq on Wednesday.

Representatives of the Syrian government, parliamentarians and business leaders underlined the urgency of facing up to the economic and social consequences of the massive influx of refugees from Iraq. These refugees have increased Syria's population by 7%, putting ever-increasing stress on the country's health services and educational facilities.

Finally, the delegation stressed the fact that Syria is an indispensable partner for any peaceful resolution of the many tensions in the Middle East. In the context of the Arab-Israeli conflict, violence in Iraq and high political tension in Lebanon, the Syrian government was urged to contribute positively to efforts to stabilise this volatile region.