German, French FM’s visit Damascus for talks with Syria’s new leadership
France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot in Damascus on January 3, 2025. (AFP Photo)
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot arrived in Syria’s capital, Damascus, marking the first visit by senior Western officials since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in early December.
The unannounced visit signals a potential shift in European diplomatic engagement with Syria following years of strained relations.
Baerbock and Barrot are expected to meet with Syria’s interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, for discussions aimed at addressing the country’s future governance, stabilization, and humanitarian needs.
Decades of oppression, the atrocities of the Assad regime and its terrible civil war have left enormous wounds on millions of people in Syria. An entire country is scarred by this – and at the same time is now drawing justified hope that the future will be better.
The painful chapter of Assad’s rule is over. A new chapter has begun, but not yet written. Because at this moment the Syrians have the chance to take the fate of their state into their own hands again.
We want to support them in this: in an inclusive, peaceful transfer of power, in the reconciliation of society, in reconstruction, in addition to the humanitarian aid that we have provided to the people of Syria without ceasing over the years.
We all know that this will be a rocky road. My trip today with my French counterpart on behalf of the EU is a clear signal: a new political beginning between Europe and Syria, between Germany and Syria, is possible.
We are travelling to Damascus today with the offer of our support, but also with clear expectations of the new rulers. A new beginning can only happen if all Syrians, regardless of their ethnic or religious group, are given a place in the political process.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock
Baerbock emphasizes support for Syrian stability
In a statement ahead of her arrival, Baerbock highlighted the importance of supporting Syria at a critical juncture, stating that Germany aims to assist Syria in becoming “a functioning state with full control over its territory.”
While acknowledging skepticism regarding the coalition led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which played a significant role in Assad’s ousting, Baerbock underscored the need to engage constructively to support the Syrian people.
Together, France and Germany stand alongside the Syrian people, in all their diversity. In Syria, we want to promote a peaceful and demanding transition in the service of the Syrians and for regional stability.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot
Barrot’s regional engagement prior to Damascus
Before arriving in Damascus, French Foreign Minister Barrot held talks in Lebanon with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
Their discussions covered regional political developments, Lebanon’s internal situation, and bilateral relations between France and Lebanon.
Focus of talks in Damascus
The joint visit by Baerbock and Barrot is set to address critical issues, including humanitarian aid distribution, rebuilding essential infrastructure, and fostering political stability in Syria.
Discussions will also touch on the role of European nations in post-conflict recovery and governance.
