Adis Ahmetovic, the foreign‑policy spokesman for the SPD parliamentary group, said ahead of Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s upcoming meeting with Syrian transitional president Ahmed al‑Sharaa that the visit should mark a new, trustworthy chapter in German‑Syrian relations, more than a year after the downfall of the Assad regime.
He stressed that Germany wants to see a political transition in Syria that is rooted in the rule of law and stability, and that only a credible process that truly includes all segments of society-especially minorities-can achieve that. “It is essential that the protection of minorities is central, and that an inclusive process is undertaken” Ahmetovic told the network.
Given recent reports of violence against Druzes, Alawites and Kurds, he insisted that such occurrences must never recur. “Germany can play a key role as a partner for civil society and reconstruction” he added.
Merz should make clear that Germany is keen on a stable Syria, but any closer ties would hinge on certain conditions: rule of law, safeguarding of minorities, and a peaceful, prudent foreign policy.
The government should back Syria’s stance of staying largely out of the current Middle‑East war, and Merz should also convey that reconstruction and the return of refugees are tightly linked in the German view. In a devastated country lacking prospects, people cannot come back. Germany therefore has a strong interest in rapid reconstruction and will support those efforts.
