Vargas Llosa informed in statements published by the Syrian press that around 1.3 million refugees have returned since December 2024, in addition to almost two million internally displaced persons who have returned to their places of origin.

The official stated that an estimated three million Syrians have returned to their homes in a relatively short period.

The UNHCR representative in Syria stressed that thousands of citizens are returning spontaneously after more than 14 years of forced displacement, and underscored that the fear that gripped Syrian society for years is rapidly diminishing, giving way to a widespread sense of hope.

He considered the return of a significant number of refugees an encouraging sign, although he cautioned that a substantial improvement in economic conditions will take time and depend on coordinated and sustained international support.

Vargas Llosa also pointed out that Syria’s recovery after a prolonged war will not be immediate, but emphasized that both the Syrian government and people deserve recognition for having reconnected the country with the international community in a relatively short time.

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