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2mo ago

Germany Reopens Embassy in Damascus After 13-Year Closure

The move marks a cautious reengagement with Syria under its interim government, as violence and governance challenges persist.

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Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock mit dem neuen syrischen Machthaber Ahmed al-Scharaa im Präsidentenpalast in Damaskus.

Overview

  • Germany's embassy in Damascus has reopened with a small team of diplomats operating from a secret location due to security concerns.
  • The reopening follows the December 2024 overthrow of Bashar al-Assad by a rebel alliance led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
  • Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized humanitarian aid, conditional sanctions relief, and the importance of protecting minorities and women's rights.
  • Recent violence, including a military operation against Assad loyalists, resulted in over 1,000 deaths, raising concerns about the interim government's stability.
  • The embassy aims to support Syria's reconstruction and political transition while monitoring the Islamist-led interim administration under Ahmed al-Scharaa.