Sat Dec 07 14:21:45 UTC 2024: ## India Issues Travel Advisory as Civil War Intensifies in Syria
**New Delhi, India** – The escalating civil war in Syria has prompted the Indian government to issue a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid all travel to the country. Islamic rebels have seized the Daraa region in southern Syria and are reportedly advancing towards the capital, Damascus, and the third-largest city, Homs. Kurdish fighters have also made gains, capturing territory in eastern Syria.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely monitoring the situation and has advised Indian citizens currently in Syria to remain in contact with the Indian embassy. The advisory comes amid a significant deterioration in the security situation, with rebel forces making substantial territorial gains.
Despite the deteriorating conditions, India’s historical ties with Syria remain strong. The two countries continue to collaborate on various projects, a testament to their longstanding relationship. This relationship has been marked by high-level visits in recent years, including a visit by Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad to India in 2022, where India pledged $280 million in aid for power and steel plant projects. Previous visits by Indian Prime Ministers and Presidents underscore the depth of this historical connection, dating back to Jawaharlal Nehru’s visits in the 1950s and 1960s.
While the current geopolitical climate presents a challenging backdrop, India’s commitment to maintaining a strong diplomatic relationship with Syria appears unwavering, even amidst the intensifying conflict. The MEA’s emphasis on its citizens’ safety reflects the government’s priority in safeguarding its nationals during this volatile period. The text also mentions the recent political changes in Maharashtra, India, but this information is unrelated to the main focus on the Syrian crisis.
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