German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and her Austrian counterpart Gerhard Karner held talks with the Syrian government in Damascus regarding the voluntary return of Syrian refugees, marking a significant step toward enhanced cooperation in this area. The meeting, held with Syria’s newly appointed Interior Minister Anas Khattab, comes at a critical time as Syria seeks to improve security and economic conditions following years of war.
According to Khattab, the discussions covered several key issues, focusing on creating an environment conducive to investment and job opportunities within Syria. He emphasized efforts to encourage Syrians who fled due to the war to return, noting that economic improvements would facilitate voluntary repatriation. Khattab also highlighted the Syrian government’s readiness to issue passports and documents for citizens, a move German Interior Minister Faeser described as a “step forward” in voluntary repatriation efforts.
In her press statements, Faeser expressed satisfaction with the talks, which addressed Syria’s security situation, particularly efforts to combat the Islamic State (ISIS). At the start of the meeting, she stated that the fall of the Assad regime presents an opportunity for democratic reforms in Syria, despite acknowledging the fragile security and humanitarian conditions in many areas.
Faeser expressed her desire to discuss prospects for refugee returns with the Syrian government, noting that many refugees in Germany have built new lives, including learning the language and securing jobs. However, she stressed Germany’s priority of swiftly deporting criminals and extremists, which requires cooperation with Syrian authorities to ensure their return.
During the visit, a Syrian Foreign Ministry official welcomed Faeser at the airport, expressing “cautious optimism” about Syria’s situation. The official noted that while isolated security incidents have occurred, the overall situation is moving toward stability.
The visit reflects Germany’s efforts to support a new beginning in Syria, which continues to rely heavily on foreign aid after over 13 years of war. Germany is also advocating for the lifting of Western sanctions on Syria, which could bolster the Syrian government’s ability to rebuild its devastated economy and improve conditions.
The issue of voluntary refugee return has garnered significant attention from European governments, particularly given the large number of Syrian refugees in Europe since the onset of the conflict. Germany, a major host country for refugees, has made their return a key part of European and international political discussions.
Talks between Germany, Austria, and Syria are expected to continue in the coming months, with the involved parties seeking practical and safe solutions for refugees, supporting Syria’s stability, and advancing humanitarian efforts in the region.
