German FM to visit Syria for first time since Assad’s ouster
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is scheduled to arrive in Syria on Thursday for his first official visit since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad, according to a statement released by the German Foreign Ministry.
Wadephul is expected to meet with officials of Syria’s new transitional government, including President Ahmad al-Sharaa, as part of efforts to re-establish diplomatic engagement with Damascus after more than a decade of strained relations.
“With the overthrow of the Assad dictatorship, the people of Syria have entered a new era,” Wadephul said, referring to Assad’s ouster late last year.
The statement emphasized Germany’s readiness to support Syria’s stabilization and reconstruction under the new government.
The visit marks a significant step in Europe’s cautious re-engagement with Syria following years of isolation during Assad’s rule.
Germany was among the European countries that cut diplomatic ties with Damascus after the Syrian conflict erupted in 2011.
The overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024 and the rise of the transitional government under President Ahmad al-Sharaa have prompted several Western states to reconsider their stance.
Wadephul’s visit signals Berlin’s willingness to explore political and humanitarian cooperation while assessing prospects for Syria’s reconstruction and regional reintegration.