Germany Reopens Embassy in Syria After 13-Year Closure

Germany has reopened its embassy in Syria after 13 years, following the fall of Bashar Assad. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock highlighted the need for accountability regarding extremist violence and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to humanitarian aid. The embassy’s reopening signals a restoration of diplomatic relations during a crucial rebuilding phase for Syria, with Germany pledging significant financial support.

Germany has officially reopened its embassy in Syria, more than three months following the fall of former President Bashar Assad. The embassy, which had been closed since 2012 due to the Syrian civil war, was inaugurated by German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, marking her second visit to Syria after the regime’s collapse. A limited number of diplomats will work in Damascus, while consular operations such as visa issuance will remain in Beirut, Lebanon.

This reopening signifies an important advancement in the relationship between Berlin and Damascus as the latter confronts numerous humanitarian and security challenges while attempting to rebuild post-Assad. Notably, over one million Syrians, many of whom fled the civil conflict, now reside in Germany.

During her visit, Baerbock engaged with Syria’s interim leadership, emphasizing the need to control extremist factions responsible for recent sectarian violence. “It is imperative that extremist groups are brought under control and those responsible for crimes are held accountable,” she stated after discussions with interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Her visit comes on the heels of violent confrontations in northwestern Syria, which resulted in significant casualties, including civilians from the Alawite minority, to which Assad belongs. Baerbock condemned the “targeted killing of civilians,” categorizing it as a significant breach of trust and urged the interim government to manage its internal factions and ensure accountability.

Baerbock reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to providing humanitarian support to Syria, suggesting the potential for adjusted sanctions under specific conditions. She remarked, “A new political beginning between Europe and Syria, between Germany and Syria, is possible,” highlighting the need for commitments to uphold freedom and equality for all Syrians as part of this transition. Recently, Germany pledged €300 million in reconstruction assistance during a donor conference, which garnered €5.8 billion in total.

Germany’s reopening of the embassy mirrors actions taken by other EU nations, with Italy and Spain also reinstating their embassies in Syria, indicating a collective shift in diplomatic relations. This development is expected to pave the way for further engagement in the region.

The reopening of Germany’s embassy in Syria marks a pivotal moment in the revival of diplomatic ties following a 13-year hiatus. It signifies Berlin’s intent to support Syria’s recovery, amidst ongoing humanitarian challenges and civil unrest. Baerbock’s visit included discussions on controlling extremist violence and reaffirming Germany’s humanitarian commitment while exploring potential easing of sanctions, indicating a new phase in relations between Germany and Syria.

Original Source: www.dw.com