Germany has reopened its embassy in Syria, signaling a cautious improvement in relations with Islamist leaders

Germany has reopened its embassy in Syria, marking the establishment of official diplomatic relations with the new leadership in Damascus as the country grapples with significant humanitarian and security challenges in the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

“I am visiting Syria for the second time in about ten weeks because the nation and its future are precarious,” stated German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during a press conference in Damascus. “We cannot foresee what may unfold in the coming months or even weeks.”

Baerbock highlighted the dire situation on the ground, noting a critical shortage of basic necessities, particularly in energy infrastructure. She emphasized Germany’s intention to assist Syria in its reconstruction efforts, including the modernization of power plants.

With approximately 1 million Syrians residing in Germany due to a significant influx of refugees over the past decade, the country aims to convey a message of cautious engagement with the new authorities while advocating for the rights of minority groups.

The embassy has deployed a small political team and plans to gradually increase its presence based on local conditions.

Due to security issues and limited capacity, visa and consular services will continue to be managed from neighboring Lebanon, Baerbock explained. She also mentioned that Germany would collaborate with the interim government to facilitate the voluntary repatriation of Syrians.

Baerbock’s initial meeting with Syria’s new de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, took place earlier this year, just a month after Islamist rebels from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) ousted President Assad following over 13 years of civil conflict. Recent clashes between Assad loyalists and the new leadership have reportedly resulted in over 1,000 fatalities, primarily among civilians, according to a war monitoring organization.