Welsh Parliament: First European Parliament to Raise the Syrian Independence Flag

The Welsh Parliament made history as it became the first parliament in Europe to raise the Syrian Independence Flag (the new Syrian flag) during a special ceremony organised by the Syrian Welsh Society.

The event featured a moving rendition of the anthem For the Sake of Glory, written by the renowned Syrian poet and late diplomat Omar Abu Risha.

Speeches of Hope and Justice

The ceremony included powerful speeches, notably one from Jane Hutt, the Welsh Minister for Social Justice, who underlined the importance of supporting justice and freedom across the world.

Dr Mohammad Alhadj Ali, Chairman of the Syrian Welsh Society, spoke about the Syrian community’s vital role in promoting values of citizenship and solidarity. Plaid Cymru Member of the Senedd (Welsh Parliament), Peredur Owen Griffiths, expressed his steadfast support for the Syrian people and their pursuit of a better future.

Dr Rowan Sukkar, a poet and academic, presented a poignant English-language poem titled Whispers of Their Voices at Dusk, which highlighted the suffering of Syrian children who tragically lost their lives during the revolution’s difficult years.

The event concluded with sincere and hopeful remarks from members of the Syrian Welsh Society’s youth club. They shared their vision for a united Syria, built on justice and equality for all its citizens, expressing optimism for a brighter future that meets the aspirations of the Syrian people.

Art Exhibition Showcasing Syrian Struggles

As part of the event, an art exhibition featured works by Dr Rowan Sukkar, Rand Hamadeh, and Dana Hamadeh. Their collaborative paintings portrayed the struggles and resilience of Syrians in their pursuit of freedom and dignity.

A Display of Solidarity

The ceremony was attended by a wide range of guests, including members of the Syrian and Arab communities, as well as local Welsh figures. The event was a remarkable display of genuine solidarity, transcending borders, with the Syrian people’s ongoing struggle for justice and freedom.

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