Germany has reopened its embassy in Damascus after 13 years, signaling renewed diplomatic relations. The embassy will initially operate with a small team, managing consular affairs from Beirut. German Foreign Minister Baerbock highlighted Germany’s support for Syria’s political and economic recovery, calling for an inclusive political process. Germany pledged 300 million euros at a donor conference in Brussels to support Syria’s economic stability.
Germany has officially reopened its embassy in Damascus after a 13-year closure, marking a significant step in diplomatic ties. German special envoy to Syria, Stefan Schneck, announced that the embassy will start its operations with a small working team, while visa and consular affairs will continue to be managed from Beirut temporarily.
The diplomatic mission closure in Syria was a response to the violent repression of pro-democracy protests by the regime of Bashar al-Assad in 2011. Following the intensified conflict, many Arab and foreign nations withdrew their presence from the country. Assad, who has ruled Syria for nearly a quarter-century, sought refuge in Russia after rebel forces gained control of the capital.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, a leader of anti-government factions, was appointed president during a transitional period in January. On the same day Germany reopened its embassy, al-Sharaa met with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and European Parliament member Armin Laschet in Damascus. The details of their discussions were not disclosed.
This visit by Baerbock marks her second trip to Syria since Assad’s government fell in December. She emphasized Germany’s commitment to assist Syria politically and economically, stating that “the Syrian people need assistance and reconstruction,” reaffirming solidarity with local peace efforts.
Baerbock noted that “the first steps toward unifying the country have been taken,” asserting that future processes must be inclusive of all societal segments. Emphasizing accountability, she called on the government to address those responsible for past crimes, ensuring that all ethnic and religious groups are represented in the political process before refugees can safely return.
During a recent donor conference in Brussels, Germany pledged 300 million euros to enhance Syria’s economic stability, as part of a broader commitment where participants collectively promised 5.8 billion euros to aid Syrians and support countries hosting refugees.
The reopening of the German embassy in Damascus symbolizes a pivotal moment in Syria’s diplomatic landscape following over a decade of conflict. Germany emphasizes its ongoing commitment to assist in Syria’s reconstruction and promote a political process inclusive of all Syrian voices. This initiative aligns with broader international efforts to support Syria amid ongoing humanitarian challenges and the need for stability.
Original Source: ifpnews.com
