Germany has reopened its embassy in Damascus, Syria, 13 years after it was shut down during the early days of the country’s civil war. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock formally reopened the embassy on Thursday during her second visit to Damascus since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad in December.
Germany is among the leading powers in the European Union to resume diplomatic relations with Syria. Before Berlin’s move, Italy reopened its embassy last year before Assad’s fall, while Spain restored its diplomatic presence following his ouster.
Renewed Ties and Political Expectations
Baerbock emphasized that Germany’s re-engagement with Syria signals the possibility of a new political chapter between Europe and the war-torn nation. However, she underscored that this renewal comes with expectations.
“A political new beginning between Europe and Syria, between Germany and Syria, is possible,” Baerbock said in a statement before her arrival. “But that comes with clear expectations that there is freedom, security, and opportunity in Syria for all people—women and men, people of all ethnic groups and religions.”
1,000 Killed in Clashes Between Assad Loyalists and New Rulers
The reopening of Germany’s embassy comes amid renewed violence in Syria. Earlier this month, fierce clashes erupted between forces loyal to Assad and the country’s new ruling government, leading to the worst violence since the civil war. Reports indicate that around 1,000 people were killed, most of them from Assad’s Alawite minority community.
Baerbock condemned the violence, stating that the unrest has “massively cost confidence” in the new government. She urged the transitional administration, led by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, to take control of the situation and hold those responsible accountable.
Germany Backs Syria’s Transition Deal
The interim government recently signed a historic agreement with the Kurdish-led authority that governs Syria’s northeast. Baerbock welcomed the deal, stressing the need for inclusivity to ensure all communities feel represented in the new Syria.
“The transitional government must ensure that all groups feel part of the new Syria,” she said.
Germany’s move to reopen its embassy signals a shift in Europe’s approach to Syria’s post-war governance, marking a step toward renewed diplomatic engagement after years of conflict.
Sources By Agencies
