DAMASCUS — Syria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has declared the start of a new era for the country, emphasizing unity, justice, and equality for all citizens in its first statement since the fall of President Bashar Assad's regime.

“Today, a new chapter is being written in Syria’s history,” the ministry stated in a Facebook post on Sunday.

“This marks the beginning of a national covenant that unites Syrians instead of dividing them, striving to build a nation grounded in justice, equality, and full rights and responsibilities for everyone. Citizenship will be the foundation, far removed from one-sided viewpoints.”

The ministry pledged that it and its diplomatic missions abroad will continue to serve the needs of all Syrians and carry out their responsibilities with dedication, reaffirming that the homeland remains the highest priority.

This statement follows the announcement by Syrian opposition forces of their entry into Damascus and the subsequent collapse of Bashar Assad’s regime. Reports indicate that Assad has fled to an undisclosed location. — Agencies