Damascus (TDI): Germany has reopened its embassy in Damascus, re-establishing diplomatic ties with Syria after more than a decade.
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock led a high-level delegation to the Syrian capital, where she met President Ahmad Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani at the People’s Palace.
The visit marks a significant shift in Germany’s policy towards Syria, signalling a cautious engagement with the country’s leadership amid ongoing political and security challenges.
Es sind entscheidende Zeiten für #Syrien. Hoffnung auf eine bessere Zukunft für alle liegt in den Händen der Übergangsregierung. Es liegt an Ihnen, dass Extremisten in den eigenen Reihen unter Kontrolle gebracht & verlorenes Vertrauen wieder hergestellt werden.- @ABaerbock 1/4 pic.twitter.com/lvsHjFdiFq
— Auswärtiges Amt (@AuswaertigesAmt) March 20, 2025
Baerbock’s visit follows Canada’s recent decision to restore diplomatic relations with Syria.
The reopening of the German embassy reflects a broader European strategy to recalibrate engagement with Damascus while maintaining pressure on key issues, including human rights and humanitarian assistance.
Accompanying Baerbock was Armin Laschet, Vice President of the European Parliament, highlighting the European Union’s growing interest in Syria’s political transition.
During her stay, Baerbock visited conflict-affected areas and met with humanitarian organizations working on post-war recovery efforts.
She reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting reconstruction projects, facilitating aid deliveries, and addressing the needs of displaced populations. Discussions also covered regional stability, counterterrorism efforts, and the ongoing refugee crisis.
Germany had cut diplomatic ties with Syria in 2012, citing human rights violations and the escalating civil war.
Over the years, Berlin has been a key advocate of sanctions against Damascus while providing humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees.
The decision to reopen the embassy comes as European governments explore avenues to engage with Syria’s leadership while balancing their commitment to international law and accountability.
German officials have clarified that the move does not indicate full normalization but is aimed at facilitating diplomatic dialogue, monitoring developments on the ground, and ensuring effective humanitarian coordination.
The embassy is expected to play a role in overseeing aid distribution and evaluating conditions for potential refugee returns.
As Germany re-establishes its diplomatic presence in Syria, analysts view the development as part of a wider European reassessment of policies in the region.
While Berlin remains cautious, the move is seen as an acknowledgment that Syria’s political reality is evolving, requiring direct engagement alongside continued humanitarian efforts.
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