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Situation of Iraqi Assyrians Often Overlooked: EU MP
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Brussels -- The European Parliament conference titled "Assyrians in Iraq", held in June this year, marked a starting point for increasing awareness about the problems encountered in Iraq for a non Muslim minority as the Assyrians.

The conference was organized by Member of the European Parliament Esther de Lange from the European Peoples Party-European Democrats (EPP-ED), which is the largest parliamentary group in the EU. The Assyria Council of Europe, a Brussels based advocacy group, was also involved in the conference.

In her opening remarks in the conference booklet published recently, Esther de Lange writes:

"The European Parliament has repeatedly condemned acts of violence against the Assyrians, and has asked for the protection of Assyrians and other minorities in Iraq and in neighbouring countries. However, in my view, the Assyrians' difficult situation unfortunately remains too often overlooked. I hope that, by hosting this event, a step has been made in putting the situation of the Assyrians more firmly on the European agenda."

Assyria Council of Europe Project director, Mr. Afram Yakoub, commented:

"Assyrians are the primary victims of terrorism in the Middle East and have been affected more than any other nation as they now face complete annihilation in Iraq. The conference has been a welcomed first step in highlighting this terrible situation".

Click here to read the conference booklet.

Assyria Council of Europe



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