The visit of the German and French Foreign Ministers to Syria marks a significant shift in Western engagement with the war-torn country, which has been under new leadership since the fall of long-time ruler Bashar al-Assad last month.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and her French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot landed in Damascus on Friday, meeting with Ahmed al-Scharaa, the new de facto ruler backed by the Islamist militia Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This meeting signifies the first engagement of high-level Western officials with the Islamist leadership, accentuating the potential for renewed discussions about Syria’s political future.
Baerbock, who had flown from Cyprus, emphasized the urgency of fostering inclusive governance, stating, "A political fresh start between Europe and Syria is possible." During their discussions, she outlined the clear expectations from the new leadership: ensuring equality and protection for all ethnic and religious groups. "The new Syrian society must include everyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or belief," she said, highlighting the necessity for fundamental rights to be honored.
The dual ministers visited the infamous Saidnaya prison, notorious for the severe torture and unjust treatment of many detainees under the Assad regime. Witnessing the horrid conditions firsthand, Baerbock remarked, "If I see today what the people have gone through in this hell, this hellish prison, it becomes clear how important your work was,” referring to the Syrian Civil Defense forces, also known as the White Helmets, who have worked tirelessly to provide humanitarian aid throughout the conflict.
Both governments, Baerbock emphasized, were committed to supporting Syria through this political transition. She reiterated the need for justice as indispensable for any forward momentum. Their visit was also intended to relay messages of solidarity to the Syrian populace, expressing Germany and France's support for their struggles against oppression.
The ministers were clear about their cautious approach to engaging with HTS amid their historical ties with radical groups. "At all skepticism, we will continue to measure the HTS by its actions," Baerbock reassured, noting the need for the new leadership to show genuine commitment to moderation and dialogue with various factions within Syria.
Germany has been home to nearly one million Syrian refugees since the start of the conflict, and discussions surrounding the repatriation of these individuals were woven throughout their diplomatic engagements. The ministers recognized the immense challenges posed by the current humanitarian crisis within Syria, where over 16 million people depend on aid.
Leaders from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), comprised mainly of Kurdish forces, voiced concerns to Barrot about their vulnerable position under the new Islamist regime. The SDF, which has been fundamental in combating ISIS, fears the instability could lead to setbacks to their semi-autonomous governance, which has been supported by the US.
The visit concluded with the ministers underscoring the importance of unity among Syrian factions to establish lasting peace. Amid deep political fractures, Baerbock highlighted the need for open conversations and collaborative efforts moving forward. They are both optimistic yet realistic, acknowledging the turbulent road still lying ahead for Syria but also expressing hope for change.
Reflecting on the visit, Baerbock stated, “We must not lose this chance to support the people of Syria at this pivotal moment.” Both ministers left Damascus with hopes of rekindling relationships between Syria and Western powers, advocating for justice and equality to pave the way for reconciliation as the nation seeks to recover from years of brutal civil conflict.