Germany Reopens Embassy in Syria After 13 Years of Closure
Germany has reopened its embassy in Damascus after a 13-year hiatus tied to Syria’s civil war. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized potential diplomatic renewal between Germany and Syria. This move reflects broader shifts within EU member states regarding engagement with Syria amidst changing power dynamics, as HTS claims control in Damascus.
On Thursday, Germany officially reopened its embassy in Damascus, concluding a 13-year absence due to the ongoing civil war in Syria. This significant move was made by Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her visit to the Syrian capital, as reported by the German news agency dpa.
Germany, recognized as a prominent member of the European Union, is among the few EU nations to reestablish its diplomatic presence in Syria. Italy reopened its embassy in the previous year prior to the fall of Bashar al-Assad, while Spain followed suit post his ousting.
In a formal statement preceding her visit, Baerbock emphasized that her mission signifies a potential “political new beginning between Europe and Syria, between Germany and Syria.” This gesture is indicative of a renewed diplomatic approach toward relations in the region.
On December 8, militants led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) captured Damascus in a surprising offensive that marked a significant shift in power dynamics. HTS announced the end of Assad’s rule and positioned its leader, Abu Muhammad Jolani, also known as Ahmad Sharaa, as the new interim president of Syria.
The reopening of the German embassy in Damascus marks a pivotal moment in Europe-Syria relations following a prolonged absence since the civil war’s outset. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock’s visit conveys a message of hope for renewed diplomatic interactions and indicates a shifting stance within the EU regarding the Syrian conflict. The control of Damascus by militants further alters the landscape of Syrian politics, with new leadership emerging in the form of HTS.
Original Source: en.mehrnews.com
