The foreign ministers of Germany and France visited Syria to engage with new leadership post-Assad. They emphasized a peaceful transition of power, the need for moderate governance, and assured support for Syria’s democratic processes, following the end of the Assad regime in December 2023.
The foreign ministers of Germany and France, Annalena Baerbock and Jean-Noel Barrot, conducted a significant visit to Damascus, where they met with Ahmed Al-Sharaa, Syria’s de facto leader, marking the first visit by European Union officials since the end of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime in December. The ministers expressed intentions to foster a new relationship with Syria and emphasized the necessity for a peaceful transition of power within the country.
The visit followed a period of turmoil, which saw the rebel forces seize control of Damascus on December 8, leading to the ousting of President Assad and signaling the end of decades of the Assad family’s governance. This diplomatic engagement aims to convey a message of cautious optimism to the Islamist rebel group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), as well as an acknowledgment of the newly established leadership while underscoring the importance of moderation and the protection of minority rights.
Prior to their departure, Minister Baerbock articulated that her visit represented a “clear signal” from the EU for a “new political beginning between Europe and Syria”. She highlighted the significance of extending an “outstretched hand” toward Syria post-Assad, mentioning the ultimate goal of reintegrating Syria as a respected member of the international community. During their agenda, the officials toured Sednaya prison, notorious for human rights abuses under former President Assad’s rule. Minister Barrot condemned the conditions within the facility, likening it to a “concentration camp style of hell” and emphasized the urgent need for justice to prevail within the country.
Minister Barrot further extended an offer of France’s technical expertise to aid the transitional authorities in addressing issues of impunity and advancing transitional justice. Baerbock urged the international community to support efforts to attain justice for victims of atrocities committed within the prison’s walls. Additionally, Barrot suggested that the new transitional government should engage the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons to evaluate and dismantle any existing chemical weapon stockpiles. Both ministers reiterated their commitment to assist Syria as it embarks on the drafting of a new constitution, expressing that the hopes surrounding the country’s democratic transition remain “fragile but real.”
The article reflects on a pivotal moment in Syrian history as the European Union engages with the country’s new leadership following the fall of the Assad regime. It outlines a strategic diplomatic effort aimed at ensuring a peaceful transition of power and rebuilding Syria’s international standing. The meeting represents a shift from isolation to potential collaboration, highlighting the EU’s commitment to addressing human rights violations and facilitating a democratic reform process. The emphasis on transitional justice and the involvement of international bodies in chemical weapons oversight reflects the EU’s proactive stance in shaping Syria’s future.
In summary, the visit of the German and French foreign ministers to Syria marks a significant step towards a potential realignment of relations between Syria and the European Union. With a strong focus on promoting a peaceful transition of power, ensuring minority protection, and establishing transitional justice, the ministers conveyed a hopeful yet cautious approach to the future of the war-torn nation. Their willingness to offer support in legal and constitutional matters illustrates an earnest desire for Syria to regain its place in the global community amidst rebuilding efforts.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
