In his first visit to Germany since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime in late 2024, interim Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa announced a joint cooperation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to facilitate the return of more Syrians residing in Germany to their homeland. Al-Sharaa confirmed that the goal is to return 80% of Syrian refugees in Germany over the next three years.
During their meeting in Berlin, Merz noted that Germany, which hosts the largest Syrian community in the European Union, aims to support reconstruction efforts in Syria, where over a million Syrians live, many of whom arrived during the peak of the migrant influx in 2015 and 2016.
Event Details
Merz stated that Germany is working with Al-Sharaa to establish a circular migration model that allows Syrians to contribute to the reconstruction of their country without relinquishing the stability they have achieved in Germany. Al-Sharaa explained that Syria needs investments in the fields of energy, transportation, and tourism, emphasizing that his country possesses rich human resources.
Al-Sharaa also added that Syria has witnessed tremendous destruction during the civil war, and Syrians are eager to catch up with the world as Germany did after World War II. He confirmed that the Syrian government is working with its friends in the German government to achieve these goals.
Background & Context
Over the past years, Syria has experienced a bloody conflict lasting more than 14 years, which has led to the displacement of millions of residents. As the intensity of fighting has decreased in some areas, the Syrian government has begun seeking ways to rebuild the country, which requires the return of refugees and migrants.
It is noteworthy that Al-Sharaa, who assumed power after the overthrow of Assad, has made several visits to Western countries, including the United States, France, and Russia, which has contributed to easing some of the international sanctions imposed on Syria.
Impact & Consequences
This move by the Syrian government is seen as a positive step towards reconstruction, but it faces significant challenges. The country still suffers from insecurity and unrest, raising questions about the government's ability to ensure the safety of returnees.
There are also concerns that this policy may lead to further division among the different sects in Syria, as sectarian tensions remain. Human rights activists have criticized Al-Sharaa's visit to Germany, pointing to his past as an Islamic leader and the ongoing violence in the country.
Regional Significance
These developments are directly related to the Arab region, where the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland is a sensitive issue affecting neighboring countries such as Lebanon and Jordan. Additionally, reconstruction in Syria could open new avenues for Arab investment in the country.
In conclusion, these steps require close monitoring, as their success depends on achieving security and stability in Syria, as well as on international community support for reconstruction.