Cyprus plans to launch a repatriation programme for Syrian families who withdraw their asylum applications, allowing one adult family member to stay on the island and work, AFP reports.
Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannidis said financial incentives would be introduced from next month for families seeking asylum or those enjoying international protection to voluntarily return to Syria.
He told reporters that the programme was being implemented in coordination with the European Union. EU member Cyprus is one of the largest recipients of Syrian migrants per capita.
Ioannidis noted that Syria is “going through a critical period of transition” following the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in December.
“The success of reconstruction depends on political will, international cooperation and, most importantly, the active participation of the Syrian people themselves,” he said.
Cypriot officials say 2,500 Syrians have withdrawn their asylum applications or renounced their protection status, and about 2,400 have returned home.
The repatriation program allows one person per family or couple to receive a special residence and work permit valid for two years. Returning family members will receive €2,000 ($2,270) for a spouse and €1,000 for each child.
The program will run from June 2 to August 31. Cyprus has provided refuge to thousands of Syrians fleeing the civil war there in 2011. The eastern Mediterranean island is less than 200 kilometers from the Syrian and Lebanese coasts and has long been a route for refugees seeking a better life in Europe.
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