The Czech Republic is the only country in Europe that maintains diplomatic relations in Syria, torn by seven years of civil war. The Czechs provide consular services for European Union citizens and act as intermediaries for other countries.

The Czech ministry said in a statement that Foreign Minister Jan Hamacek had arrived in Damascus for the handover of the workers, who were both in good health.

The workers will be returned to Prague and met by representatives of their embassies, the ministry said.

It gave no further details on them or the case.