German Foreign Minister Discusses Bilateral Cooperation and Regional Issues in Damascus

During a press conference held in the Syrian capital Damascus, German Foreign Minister Johann Vadvol called for accountability for those responsible for crimes and violations committed in the coastal and Sweida regions in past years, stressing that achieving justice and accountability is fundamental to building a new and stable Syria.

Vadvol stated that Germany believes “preventing the recurrence of such crimes is a necessary step toward restoring trust among Syrians,” noting that Berlin is closely monitoring developments in those areas with concern.

He also emphasized the importance of combating terrorism and drug trafficking, and curbing any activities that threaten the stability of Syria and the wider region, urging Damascus to play an active role in these efforts.

Vadvol announced that Germany has provided €13 million to support humanitarian efforts in Syria and expressed hope that Berlin would reopen its embassy in Damascus in the near future.

Regarding the recent parliamentary elections in Syria, the minister described them as “a positive step toward the political process,” but added that “the participation of the provinces of Hasakah, Raqqa, and Sweida would have granted them greater credibility and national representation.”

He reaffirmed Germany’s support for the unity of Syrian territory, stating that his country seeks to strengthen economic and political cooperation with a “new Syria” based on justice and balanced partnership.

The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that Minister Vadvol met with Syrian Interim Government President Ahmad al-Sharaa, where both sides discussed economic and political cooperation, along with several regional and security issues of mutual concern.