Germany Reopens Diplomatic Mission in Syria After 13-Year Closure

Germany has reopened its embassy in Syria after thirteen years, with Minister Baerbock indicating support for Syrian reconstruction and political inclusion. The embassy’s staff is small, and services will be managed from Beirut temporarily. Baerbock met with new transitional leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and pledged financial aid to support Syria’s recovery, emphasizing the need for unity among all Syrians.

Germany has officially reopened its diplomatic mission in Syria after a closure lasting thirteen years. German Minister Baerbock announced the reopening in Damascus, expressing a desire to collaborate with all Syrians for a brighter future. The embassy’s current workforce is relatively small, and visa and consular services will continue to be managed from Beirut for the immediate future.

The closure of diplomatic missions in Syria followed a violent crackdown by the ousted President Bashar al-Assad’s government on pro-democracy protests that began in 2011. Assad has been in power for nearly 25 years, but he fled to Russia following the loss of control over Damascus to armed groups in early December. Recently, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led efforts against Assad, was appointed president for a transitional era.

On the day of the embassy’s reopening, Minister Baerbock met with al-Sharaa and European Parliament member Armin Laschet in Damascus; however, details of their discussions remain unspecified. This visit marked Baerbock’s second trip to Syria since the government’s fall, her first having occurred in January. She emphasized Germany’s intention to support Syria politically and economically, stating, “The Syrian people need assistance and reconstruction.”

Minister Baerbock noted the importance of including all segments of society in Syria’s political process and urged the government to hold accountable those responsible for past crimes. She further asserted that Syria must serve all its citizens and mentioned Germany’s commitment to assist with reconstruction efforts. Recently, at a donor conference in Brussels, Germany pledged 300 million euros to promote Syria’s economic stability, contributing to the overall 5.8 billion euros promised to aid Syrians and nations hosting refugees.

Germany’s reopening of its diplomatic mission in Syria signals a renewed commitment to engagement and support for the Syrian populace following years of conflict and instability. Through collaboration and reconstruction efforts, Germany aims to create a pathway for stability and integration of all societal groups in the political landscape of Syria. As this diplomatic gesture unfolds, the international community will be closely observing its implications for Syrian reconciliation and development.

Original Source: ifpnews.com