Greek Orthodox Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East received the newly appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Syria, Archbishop Luigi Roberto Cona, at the Patriarchate in Damascus on June 17, 2026.
During the meeting, Patriarch John X emphasized the deep-rooted presence of Christians in Syria and highlighted the importance of citizenship, coexistence, and unity among all components of Syrian society.
Archbishop Cona conveyed the greetings of Pope Leo XIV to the Patriarch, along with the Pope’s support for the historic Christian presence in the Middle East, particularly in Syria. He also expressed the Holy See’s close attention to developments in Syria during what he described as a delicate transitional period in the country’s history.
The two church leaders discussed current developments and the present situation in Syria, exchanging views on the challenges facing the nation and its people.
Patriarch John X thanked the Apostolic Nuncio for his cooperation and wished him success in his new mission. He also underscored the longstanding historical ties between the Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and the Holy See, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting peace, stability, and the Christian witness in the region.
