Germany has reopened its embassy in Damascus after a 13-year hiatus, indicating a renewed commitment to support Syria politically and economically. The move comes amidst a shift in power dynamics in Syria, with the new transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in place. Germany has pledged significant financial support for economic stability and reconstruction efforts in the country.
The Federal Republic of Germany has officially reopened its embassy in Damascus, Syria, after a closure lasting thirteen years. The reopening was confirmed by the German special envoy to Syria, Stefan Schneck, on the social media platform X, where he expressed Germany’s intention to collaborate with all Syrian communities to create a better future for the nation. Notably, the embassy’s operational team remains relatively small, with visa and consular affairs still being managed from Beirut in the immediate future.
The closure of many foreign diplomatic missions in Syria followed the government’s violent response to pro-democracy protests in 2011, which was spearheaded by President Bashar al-Assad. Following the loss of control over Damascus to armed opposition groups, al-Assad sought refuge in Russia. Recently, Ahmed al-Sharaa, a leader in the anti-government movement, was declared president for a transitional period, signaling significant political changes in the region.
On the same day as the embassy’s reopening, Baerbock, the German Foreign Minister, held discussions in Damascus with Ahmed al-Sharaa and European Parliament member Armin Laschet. Although specific details of their discussions were not disclosed, the timing coincided with Germany’s announcement regarding its renewed diplomatic presence in Syria. Baerbock’s visit to Syria marks her second trip since the fall of the al-Assad regime, reflecting Germany’s ongoing engagement in the region.
Following the embassy reopening, Minister Baerbock emphasized the importance of support for the Syrian populace, indicating that Germany is committed to providing political and economic assistance. She remarked on the necessity for reconstruction efforts, asserting, “The Syrian people need assistance and reconstruction.” Baerbock urged for a comprehensive political process that includes all ethnic and religious groups in Syria and called for accountability regarding past crimes before any refugees are repatriated.
During a recent donor conference in Brussels, Germany pledged €300 million to enhance economic stability in Syria. The conference garnered a total commitment of €5.8 billion from participating nations to support Syrians and countries hosting refugees, underscoring international solidarity with the ongoing crisis in Syria.
Germany’s reopening of its embassy in Syria marks a significant step toward diplomatic engagement following years of conflict. The German government has committed to providing substantial economic assistance while advocating for a comprehensive political process involving all segments of Syrian society. The embassy’s activity, albeit limited initially, signals a hopeful direction for Syria’s reconstruction and stability.
Original Source: ifpnews.com
