Germany to Host Syrian President Ahmed al-Chara for Refugee Discussions

Berlin is preparing to host Syrian President Ahmed al-Chara early next week, as per government sources, although an official announcement regarding the visit date has yet to be confirmed.

This initiative is part of Germany's efforts to establish a new chapter in its relations with the Syrian government and strengthen bilateral ties.

German media reports indicate that Chancellor Friedrich Merz will meet with al-Chara on Monday, accompanied by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, with discussions expected to focus on the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.

The German government spokesperson declined to confirm al-Chara's arrival but emphasized that Berlin is open to "deepening relations and pursuing a fresh start with Damascus," while closely monitoring developments on the ground in Syria, particularly the recent clashes in Aleppo between government forces and the "SDF".

Merz had previously announced that he extended an official invitation to the Syrian president, stating that the primary objective is to discuss arrangements for the return of refugees, noting that the fall of Bashar al-Assad has diminished the reasons for seeking refuge and that the civil war is no longer a pressing issue, thereby paving the way for repatriation efforts.

This move reflects a new European trend towards engaging with the current Syrian government, emphasizing internal stability and reconstruction, as well as addressing the refugee issue, which remains a significant political and social challenge in Germany.