The planned visit of German and Austrian interior ministers to Syria has been canceled due to specific security threats. German authorities cited warnings of a possible terrorist threat as the reason for halting the trip. This follows renewed diplomatic efforts by Germany, including the recent reopening of its embassy in Damascus after 13 years.
German authorities announced that the interior ministers of Germany and Austria have canceled their planned trip to Syria due to potential security threats. The delegation, led by German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, was scheduled to travel to Damascus, with arrangements made for a German military flight from Jordan.
Prior to departure from Amman, the trip was abruptly called off following specific warnings from German security officials regarding a potential terrorist threat. The German Ministry emphasized the risk made it ill-advised to continue the journey. Notably, the trip had remained undisclosed until this point, with intentions to engage with ministers from the interim government and representatives of UN aid agencies.
Germany has emerged as a primary refuge for Syrian nationals in recent years, with the need for continued diplomatic engagement underscored by recent developments. Just last week, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visited Damascus, officially reopening the German Embassy for the first time in over a decade, highlighting Europe’s need for direct observation of Syria’s evolving political landscape. Baerbock’s visit marks her second since the ousting of former President Bashar Assad.
The cancellation of the German and Austrian interior ministers’ trip to Syria underscores ongoing security concerns. This decision highlights the risks faced by officials in the region, particularly with terrorist threats still prevalent. With Germany’s renewed diplomatic efforts, including the reopening of its embassy in Damascus, attention remains focused on Syria’s political transition and humanitarian needs.
Original Source: apnews.com
