Cyprus calls for ‘swift de-escalation’ of violence in Syria

Cyprus’ foreign ministry on Saturday called for a “swift de-escalation” after violence erupted in the Syrian coastal city of Latakia between Alawites loyal to the former regime of Bashar al-Assad and the country’s new interim government.

The ministry said it is “very concerned by alarming reports of numerous violent clashes with civilian casualties”.

“Ensuring a peaceful and inclusive political transition process is essential,” it added, saying, “calm, restraint, and stability