German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reopened Germany’s embassy in Syria during a visit to Damascus, three months after Assad’s fall. Her trip follows significant violence resulting in over 1,500 deaths. Germany pledged 300 million euros for reconstruction and emphasized the need for a secure, inclusive political transition in Syria.
During a recent one-day visit to Damascus, Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s Foreign Minister, officially reopened the German embassy in Syria, which had been closed since 2012 due to the ongoing civil war. This marked her second visit to Syria following the recent fall of President Bashar Assad three months ago. Her trip coincided with serious sectarian violence that had resulted in over 1,500 fatalities along the Syrian Mediterranean coast, predominantly affecting Assad’s Alawite minority.
Baerbock expressed serious concern over the violent outbreaks, stating that they have caused a significant erosion of trust. She condemned the “targeted killing of civilians” as a heinous crime and urged the transitional government led by interim president Ahmed Al-Sharaa to ensure accountability for the actions of militias within its ranks. She emphasized the importance of supporting Syria’s reconstruction in collaboration with European partners and the UN.
Germany announced a commitment of 300 million euros (approximately $325 million) for reconstruction aid during a donor conference, which collectively garnered pledges totaling 5.8 billion euros. A German foreign ministry representative confirmed that the embassy has reopened with a limited diplomatic presence, while consular services will still be managed from Beirut for safety reasons.
The ministry spokesperson stated that Germany holds a vital interest in achieving stability in Syria, emphasizing the importance of fostering crucial diplomatic relationships to facilitate an inclusive political transition that respects diverse population interests. They conveyed an intention to engage with civil society and promptly address serious emerging challenges.
Baerbock highlighted that a renewed relationship with Europe hinges on the condition that Syria guarantees security for all its citizens, independent of their faith, gender, or ethnicity. She expressed concern that many Syrians fear that their future will not be secure. Following the violence witnessed on March 6, reports indicated extensive casualties inflicted by security forces and allied groups, particularly among the Alawite population.
Additionally, Israeli airstrikes have been prevalent since Assad’s removal, aimed at preventing weapons from being acquired by what Israel classifies as extremist factions. Baerbock criticized the past influence of foreign powers in Syria, which has led to chaos, stressing that all parties must exercise restraint to avoid undermining the intra-Syrian efforts toward unification.
The reopening of the German embassy by Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in Damascus marks a significant diplomatic move amidst the ongoing turmoil in Syria. With Germany pledging substantial reconstruction aid, Baerbock’s visit underscores the necessity for accountability and stability in the region. The emphasis on a secure future for all Syrians highlights the broader implications for peace and reconciliation in Syria as the international community gradually re-engages with the beleaguered nation.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
