The foreign ministers of Germany and France are heading to Damascus to discuss cooperation and Russian military bases.
This was announced by Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on January 3, 2025, prior to her departure to Damascus, as reported by Ukrinform, referencing the German Foreign Office's website.
“The painful chapter of Assad's rule has ended, but it is not yet written, because at this moment the Syrians have a chance to take (in their hands - ed.) the fate of their state again, as well as to heal deep, open wounds. We want to support them in this: in an inclusive, peaceful transfer of power, in societal reconciliation, in rebuilding, in addition to the humanitarian aid that we have been continuously providing to the people in Syria for many years,” stated Baerbock.
She noted that today's trip, together with her French counterpart and on behalf of the EU, sends a clear signal to the Syrians: a new political beginning between Europe and Syria, between Germany and Syria, is possible.
“With this outstretched hand, as well as with clear expectations from the new rulers, we are heading to Damascus today,” the diplomat emphasized.
A new beginning, according to her, is only possible when the new Syrian society provides all Syrians, both women and men, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation, a place in the political process, grants rights, and offers protection. If these rights are safeguarded during the ongoing transition process and are not undermined by excessively long timelines to elections or steps towards the Islamization of the justice or education systems. The minister stressed the importance of avoiding acts of revenge against entire population groups, preventing extremism, and actions by radical factions while addressing the past and establishing justice.
“This should be our common goal. And it is also in our interests; security in Europe and Germany is closely linked to this,” Baerbock emphasized.
She stated that the world “knows where Hayat Tahrir al-Sham ideologically originates, and what it has done in the past.” But it also hears and sees the aspirations for moderation and understanding with other key players. The initiation of negotiations with the Syrian Democratic Forces, predominantly composed of Kurds, is an important sign in this direction, the minister noted.
“We will continue to assess the HTC based on its actions. Despite all the skepticism, we must not miss the opportunity to support the people of Syria at this crucial crossroads,” the German Foreign Minister emphasized.
Germany and its international partners, according to Baerbock, are also obliged to ensure that the internal Syrian process is not interrupted from the outside. Important principles have been developed together with the UN in Aqaba for this purpose. This includes respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all neighboring states.
“It is also time for Russia to leave its military bases in Syria. The Syrian people will not forget the mass bombings and human rights violations. It was Putin who supported Assad for so long, covering up and backing the regime's crimes,” Baerbock emphasized.
Now we must keep in mind the goal that millions of Syrians also strive for: for Syria to once again become a respected member of the international community, she stated.
Annalena Baerbock is departing for Damascus on the morning of January 3 for a one-day visit, where she will hold talks with de facto Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa alongside her French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot, representing the European Union, and meet with representatives of Syrian civil society.
As reported, the country was recently visited by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga.