Germany has officially reopened its embassy in Damascus, marking a significant diplomatic shift after 13 years of closure due to the Syrian civil war. This move, conducted by Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her second visit to Syria since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad, signals a renewed effort to engage with the Syrian government and promote stability in the region.
Baerbock emphasized that her visit aims to convey the possibility of a "political new beginning" between Europe and Syria. However, she outlined essential conditions for this renewed relationship, stressing the need for freedom, security, and equal opportunities for all Syrians, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion. Her statements come in the wake of recent massacres that resulted in more than 1,000 deaths, primarily among the Alawite minority, which has raised concerns about the ongoing security situation.
During her discussions with Syria’s interim leadership, Baerbock called for accountability regarding extremist groups involved in recent sectarian violence. She highlighted the importance of the transitional government gaining control over these factions to restore trust and prevent further escalation. Additionally, she praised a recent agreement between the interim government and Kurdish authorities as a step toward inclusion and reconciliation among diverse groups in Syria.
Germany's reopening of the embassy follows similar actions by other European Union nations, with Italy and Spain having reopened their embassies earlier. As part of its commitment to aid Syria’s recovery, Germany announced €300 million in reconstruction assistance, reinforcing its role as a key player in addressing the humanitarian crisis.