Germany has reopened its embassy in Damascus after 13 years, pledging support for Syria’s economic and political recovery. The embassy’s operations will be limited initially, with consular services managed from Beirut. Minister Baerbock emphasized the importance of inclusivity in Syria’s political process, reflecting on urgent humanitarian needs. Germany also committed 300 million euros to aid Syria’s stability.
Germany has officially reopened its embassy in Damascus after a closure lasting 13 years, as confirmed by German special envoy to Syria, Stefan Schneck. The reopening signifies Germany’s intent to collaborate with all Syrian factions to foster improvements within the country. However, it has been noted that the embassy’s operational team remains limited, and visa and consular issues will continue to be overseen from Beirut temporarily.
The closure of diplomatic missions by numerous Arab and foreign countries ensued following the severe government crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrations in 2011. President Bashar al-Assad, in power for nearly 25 years, subsequently fled to Russia after armed adversaries captured control of Damascus. In a shift in power dynamics, Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of the opposition against Assad, was appointed as president for a transitional period earlier this year.
On Thursday, Baerbock held discourses in Damascus with al-Sharaa and European Parliament member Armin Laschet, although the presidency’s statement refrained from disclosing the specifics of their discussions. This meeting followed shortly after Germany’s embassy reopening announcement and marks Baerbock’s second visit to Syria since the Assad administration’s fall.
Following the embassy’s reopening, Minister Baerbock articulated Germany’s commitment to support Syria on both political and economic fronts, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance and reconstruction for the Syrian populace. She remarked that fostering unity within the country requires inclusion from all societal segments and stressed the necessity for accountability regarding past crimes, underscoring the essential involvement of diverse ethnic and religious groups in the political process before facilitating the return of refugees.
In an effort to promote Syria’s economic recovery, Germany recently pledged 300 million euros at a donor conference held in Brussels. This conference collectively garnered pledges totaling 5.8 billion euros from various participants, aimed at supporting Syrians and countries hosting Syrian refugees.
The reopening of the German embassy in Damascus marks a significant diplomatic shift, indicating Germany’s intent to engage more actively in Syrian affairs. With ongoing efforts to assist in Syria’s reconstruction and political stability, Germany emphasizes the necessity of a unified approach involving all societal elements. This initiative is further supported by economic commitments aimed at enhancing Syrian stability amidst ongoing challenges.
Original Source: ifpnews.com
