German FM eases tone on Syrian refugees, prioritizes reconstruction
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Deportations of Syrian refugees from Germany would apply only in “very few exceptional cases of truly serious criminals,” German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said during his visit to Damascus on Oct. 30, emphasizing his government’s commitment to supporting reconstruction, humanitarian aid, and economic revival in post-Assad Syria.
Wadephul met with Syria’s Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa to discuss refugee returns, rebuilding efforts, and bilateral cooperation — marking a new phase in German-Syrian relations since the formation of the Syrian transitional government.
“Many have not only found protection here [in Germany], but also a new home,” Wadephul said. “Some are also considering returning to Syria to rebuild their country. I would like to deepen this special relationship between our countries together with our partners in Syria.”
Germany currently hosts nearly one million Syrians who fled the war. Wadephul described this community as a “human bridge” between the two nations, underscoring that “Europe bears a special responsibility — Germany should take the lead.”
Wadephul said that Berlin will “work in a very practical manner to ensure that German companies can operate here,” highlighting that large-scale refugee repatriation remains difficult due to the destruction of infrastructure and ongoing security challenges in some regions.
The visit comes as Germany recalibrates its Middle East policy following the political transition in Damascus that ended more than five decades of Assad family rule.
Germany was among the leading donors to humanitarian efforts during the conflict and has since become a key advocate for a coordinated reconstruction process. Over the past year, German aid and private-sector investment have surged, reflecting Berlin’s intent to link economic recovery with political stabilization.
While Germany has faced domestic pressure to tighten migration rules, its government has maintained that any returns to Syria must be safe, voluntary, and dignified. The focus of recent German-Syrian dialogue has shifted from containment and sanctions toward partnership, reconstruction, and human-capital reintegration through the Syrian diaspora in Europe.