Germany Reopens Embassy in Syria Following 13-Year Closure

Germany has reopened its embassy in Syria after a 13-year closure due to the civil war. The move, initiated by Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, aims to restore diplomatic relations and provide humanitarian aid. Baerbock emphasized the importance of managing extremist groups and indicated that consular work will continue from Beirut, Lebanon.

Germany has officially reopened its embassy in Syria, marking a notable shift in diplomatic relations after its closure in 2012 during the Syrian civil war. This event took place more than three months following the fall of former President Bashar Assad, with Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock inaugurating the embassy during her second visit to Syria since the regime’s collapse. While a limited number of diplomats will work in Damascus, consular services such as visa issuance will remain in Beirut, Lebanon.

The reopening signifies an effort by Berlin to restore ties with the Damascus leadership, which currently grapples with numerous humanitarian and security challenges in the aftermath of Assad’s regime. Notably, over one million Syrians, many of whom fled the civil war, reside in Germany. Baerbock also engaged with Syria’s interim leadership, urging them to manage and hold accountable extremist factions responsible for recent sectarian violence.

During her discussions, Baerbock emphasized the necessity of controlling extremist groups and ensuring accountability for crimes committed in recent violent clashes, which had resulted in significant civilian casualties. She condemned the targeted killings of civilians, labeling such actions as disastrous to public trust.

Additionally, Baerbock reiterated Germany’s ongoing humanitarian support for Syria while suggesting that sanctions could potentially be eased if specific criteria were met. She highlighted the need for a new political approach based on commitments to provide freedom and security for all Syrians, irrespective of their background.

Germany’s recent pledge of €300 million in aid for Syria was announced during a donor conference, contributing to a larger total of €5.8 billion raised. Other European nations, including Italy and Spain, have also reopened their embassies in Syria recently, reflecting similar trends in diplomatic engagement.

The reopening of the German embassy in Syria marks a significant diplomatic development after more than a decade of closure. It signals Germany’s intention to engage more deeply with Syria’s transitional government while committing to humanitarian support. The Foreign Minister’s discussions underscore the ongoing need for accountability and the stabilization of extremist influences within the country. As Europe reevaluates its stance toward Syria, the developments could foster greater cooperation and aid amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Original Source: www.dw.com