Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reopened the country’s embassy in Syria during a visit to Damascus, marking a significant diplomatic re-engagement since its closure in 2012. Amid recent violence that has claimed over 1,500 lives, Baerbock emphasized the need for accountability from Syria’s interim government while pledging financial support for reconstruction efforts. This renewed presence is aimed at promoting stability and addressing the fears of the Syrian population regarding their safety and security.
On Thursday, Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock marked the official reopening of Germany’s embassy in Syria, which had been closed since 2012 due to the civil war. This visit to Damascus represents her second since the recent ousting of President Bashar Assad over three months ago, underscoring Germany’s renewed engagement with the region.
Baerbock’s visit follows sectarian violence in Syria that resulted in over 1,500 deaths on the Mediterranean coast, a stronghold of Assad’s Alawite minority. She expressed concern over the restoration of trust, 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.”
She urged the transitional government led by interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa to maintain order within their ranks and hold accountable those responsible for violence. Baerbock reaffirmed Germany’s intention to aid Syrians in rebuilding their nation in collaboration with European partners and the United Nations.
In a recent donor conference, Germany pledged 300 million euros ($325 million) towards reconstruction, contributing to a total of 5.8 billion euros raised. A source from the German foreign ministry confirmed that the embassy in Damascus has been reopened, albeit with a limited diplomatic team while consular services continue to operate from Beirut.
The ministry source indicated that Germany’s involvement is critical for establishing stability in Syria, allowing for better diplomatic relations and support for an inclusive political transition that respects the interests of all demographic groups. Furthermore, with diplomats reinstated in Syria, Germany aims to re-engage with civil society and respond promptly to deteriorating situations.
Baerbock cautioned that any substantial “new start” in relations with Europe must ensure security for all Syrians, irrespective of their faith or ethnicity. Many citizens currently fear that their safety may not be guaranteed in a future Syria. After March 6, reports indicated Syria’s coast faced severe violence, with more than 1,500 civilians, predominantly Alawites, being killed by security forces and allied groups.
In light of these tensions, Baerbock remarked, “The influence of foreign actors has brought nothing but chaos to Syria in the past,” reinforcing the necessity for restraint among all foreign and local parties involved to ensure stability and support the ongoing intra-Syrian unification process.
Germany’s diplomatic reinvolvement in Syria signifies a pivotal moment for international relations in the region, particularly following the recent outbreak of violence. The commitment to support Syria’s rebuilding process alongside the international community emphasizes a collective endeavor towards stabilization. However, the call for accountability and security remains critical, reflecting the lasting concerns of the Syrian populace for a peaceful future.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
