On Monday, Syrian interim president Ahmed al‑Scharaa was greeted by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the CDU at the Chancellery. A brief “four‑eyes” meeting is scheduled, followed by a joint lunch before the two leaders are set to address the press in the afternoon.
Earlier that morning al‑Scharaa had been received by President Frank‑Walter Steinmeier. He then went on to a German‑Syrian economic roundtable convened by the Foreign Office, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Ministry for Development. During the meeting German officials and German companies pledged support for Syria’s rebuilding efforts. “We stand by Syria” said Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU). That afternoon a separate meeting between al‑Scharaa and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) is planned to discuss deportations and voluntary returns to Syria.
The state visit is surrounded by stringent security measures. Multiple demonstrations have been scheduled-both by supporters of the Syrian regime and by critics. Large crowds gathering near the Chancellery with Syrian flags were seen. Police forces are on high alert to safeguard the visit.
Al‑Scharaa has served as Syria’s interim president since the end of January 2025. Prior to that, he led the Syrian militia coalition Haiʾat Tahrir as‑ch‑Sham (HTS) and helped topple the Assad regime. As an HTS leader he was wanted for terrorism and accused of serious war crimes. Since taking office he portrays himself as a moderate leader seeking rapprochement with the West, though the situation in Syria remains tense.
