Germany Reopens Embassy in Damascus Amid Calls for Accountability and Reconstruction
Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reopened the embassy in Damascus on a visit aimed at rebuilding diplomatic ties after a decade-long closure due to civil war. Her visit follows recent violent sectarian massacres that left over 1,500 dead. Baerbock emphasized the need for accountability from Syrian authorities and pledged reconstruction aid of 300 million euros.
In a significant move, Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reopened her country’s embassy in Syria during a one-day visit to Damascus. This marks the first step towards diplomatic engagement since the embassy closure in 2012 amid the Syrian civil war and follows Baerbock’s second visit since the recent change in leadership three months ago, after the fall of President Bashar Assad.
The reopening comes in the wake of a tragic series of sectarian massacres that claimed over 1,500 lives along Syria’s Mediterranean coast, predominantly affecting Assad’s Alawite community. In response, Baerbock expressed her deep concern, stating, “The horrific outbreaks of violence two weeks ago have caused a massive loss of trust. The targeted killing of civilians is a terrible crime.”
Baerbock also urged the transitional government led by interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa to maintain order, emphasizing accountability for the violent acts. She affirmed Germany’s intention to collaborate with European partners and the United Nations to support the rebuilding of Syria.
Germany announced a commitment of 300 million euros in reconstruction aid at a recent donor conference, part of a collective pledge totaling 5.8 billion euros. Although the embassy has reopened, initial operations will involve a small diplomatic team, while consular tasks will continue from Beirut due to prevailing security concerns in Syria.
A source from Germany’s foreign ministry indicated that stability in Syria is of paramount importance to Germany and highlighted the necessity of engaging with civil society once more.
Baerbock articulated that a renewed relationship with Europe hinges on establishing security for every citizen in Syria, regardless of background. She noted that many Syrians are apprehensive regarding their future safety in the nation.
Recent events have been particularly violent, with reports indicating that security forces have caused significant civilian casualties, primarily among Alawites. Meanwhile, foreign interventions, including Israeli strikes against military sites, continue to exacerbate tensions, prompting Baerbock to call for utmost military restraint from all involved parties.
The reopening of Germany’s embassy in Damascus signifies a potential shift in diplomatic relations amid Syria’s ongoing crisis. Baerbock stresses the need for security and accountability as preconditions for further support from Europe. With significant reconstruction aid pledged, Germany aims to foster stability and inclusivity in Syria while addressing the fears of its citizens regarding safety in their future.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
