Annalena Burbock. Photo: Kira Hofmann/Photothek Media Lab/Global Look Press
Germany is ready to contribute to the restoration of Syria as a safe home for its people and a “functional state in full control of its territory,” German Foreign Minister Annalena Burbock said before arriving in Damascus. This is the first visit of this level by a Western major power since the change of power in Syria, AFP reports.
Burbock will join his French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot in Damascus as part of a mission organised under the auspices of the European Union.
A new beginning for Syria
“This is a clear message to the Syrians: a political reset between Europe and Syria, between Germany and Syria, is possible,” Burbock said in her statement.
Despite the criticism associated with Islamist groups such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which led the coalition that toppled Bashar al-Assad in early December, Burbock stressed the need to support the Syrian people at this crucial moment.
“We are coming with an open hand, but also with clear expectations of the new Syrian authorities,” she said.
Calls for inclusiveness and avoidance of extremism
Burbock called on the new Syrian authorities to ensure the participation of all ethnic and religious groups in the political process, avoiding decisions that could delay the process or contribute to the radicalisation of the judicial and educational systems.
She also stressed the importance of avoiding retaliation against certain groups of the population and distancing themselves from extremist and radical groups.
“This should be our common task. And it is also in the interests of Europe and Germany: our security is directly linked to the events in Syria,” she added.
Meetings with the new government
The German and French foreign ministers are planning to meet with Syria’s new leader, Ahmad al-Shareh, as well as with representatives of Syrian civil society. According to Burbock, this meeting is an important part of the dialogue on the future of Syria.
The visit of European diplomats to Damascus marks a new chapter in relations between Syria and the West, which have long been tense due to the conflict and repression that have lasted for years.
