French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock arrived in Damascus on Friday for a high-level visit to foster ties with Syria’s new Transitional Government (STG). The visit marked the first by European officials of this rank since the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024 and underscored the European Union’s commitment to supporting Syria’s political transition and reconstruction.
A Show of Solidarity
“We stand by the Syrians, in all their diversity,” Barrot said in a post on the social media platform X. “France and Germany are here to promote a peaceful and effective transition to serve the Syrians and for the stability of the region.”
Baerbock echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance in Syria’s new era. “There can only be a new beginning if the new Syrian society gives all Syrians, women and men, regardless of ethnic or religious group, a place in the political process, grants rights, and provides protection,” she said before her arrival in Damascus.
Meetings with STG Leaders
Barrot and Baerbock met with STG General Commander Ahmad al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Sheibani in what was described as a historic step in re-establishing ties between Syria and the EU. Discussions centered on Syria’s reconstruction, the drafting of a new constitution, and achieving comprehensive reconciliation.
“The aspirations of the Syrians for a peaceful political transition are supported by Paris,” Barrot said during the meeting, adding that France intends to reinstate its diplomatic mission in Damascus soon.
Visits to Sites of Past Atrocities
As part of their visit, the ministers toured Sednaya prison, a former symbol of the Assad regime’s repression. Baerbock called the prison conditions “beyond description” and stressed the need to document crimes committed during Assad’s rule to ensure justice and accountability.
Barrot remarked on the importance of accountability in achieving justice. “We were shocked during our visit to Sednaya prison by the brutal conditions in which detainees lived there,” he said.
EU Support for Syrian Transition
The visit aligns with the EU’s broader strategy to support Syria’s transitional government. France and Germany pledged technical and legal assistance to help draft a new Syrian constitution. Barrot announced plans to host an international conference in Paris to “accompany the transitional period in Syria in the right direction.”
The ministers also stressed the necessity of Russian troop withdrawals from Syria, citing Moscow’s long-standing support for the Assad regime. “The new Syria must be free to govern without external interference,” Baerbock stated.
Future Cooperation
The STG leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, expressed optimism about the visit, highlighting its significance for Syria’s integration into the international community. He noted the importance of strategic partnerships with European nations to rebuild Syria and ensure lasting stability. “We look forward to building strategic relations with our European partners,” Al-Sharaa said.
Focus on Reconciliation
The EU ministers’ visit is seen as a significant milestone in Syria’s recovery. As the international community begins to reengage with Damascus, the emphasis remains on supporting the Syrian people and ensuring an inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous future for the nation.
