The surprise visit to Syria by the foreign ministers of Germany and France, who also represented the European Union (a positive step given the strained relations between the two countries), adds to a series of visits to Damascus by Arab foreign ministers and the Turkish foreign minister. In addition, numerous working-level visits have taken place.
The purpose of these visits, and others expected in the near future, is to demonstrate interest in opening a new chapter in relations following the fall of the Assad regime. Each visiting country likely has its own red lines or conditions for establishing relations. The two foreign ministers reiterated the conditions without which the EU would struggle to support Syria in turning over a new leaf. These conditions include in part a structured political process for drafting a constitution and holding elections that involve all ethnic and religious groups.
The German foreign minister emphasized the need to grant rights to women and ensure their integration while stressing that the new regime will be judged by its actions. She also clarified that Europe would not financially support “new Islamic structures.” Notably, she addressed the new regime’s relations with Russia, which will affect its relations with Germany, stating “It’s time for Russia to leave.” Additionally, she stressed the need to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity, without explicitly naming Turkey or Israel (a member of her delegation noted that discussions on the matter are ongoing with both countries).
The importance of the visit must also be seen in the context of the Syrian refugee issue, as millions have sought asylum in EU countries since the outbreak of the civil war. Their presence has contributed to the rise of populist right-wing movements. In Germany, where elections are scheduled for February, the issue of asylum seekers and ways of addressing it remain a key political topic that will influence the election results.
Even before the situation in Syria fully stabilizes, a public debate has begun regarding the return of refugees who have failed to integrate into the labor market. This explains the German and European interest in stabilizing Syria and their willingness to assist. However, domestic pressure may lead to a softening of the EU’s conditions for providing aid.
It’s important to remember that European countries have leverage—including the lifting of sanctions, economic and financial aid for reconstruction, diplomatic relations, and granting legitimacy to the new regime—to advance their interests. For Israel, strengthening Western influence in Syria should be a strategic priority.
The surprise visit to Syria by the foreign ministers of Germany and France, who also represented the European Union (a positive step given the strained relations between the two countries), adds to a series of visits to Damascus by Arab foreign ministers and the Turkish foreign minister. In addition, numerous working-level visits have taken place.
The purpose of these visits, and others expected in the near future, is to demonstrate interest in opening a new chapter in relations following the fall of the Assad regime. Each visiting country likely has its own red lines or conditions for establishing relations. The two foreign ministers reiterated the conditions without which the EU would struggle to support Syria in turning over a new leaf. These conditions include in part a structured political process for drafting a constitution and holding elections that involve all ethnic and religious groups.
The German foreign minister emphasized the need to grant rights to women and ensure their integration while stressing that the new regime will be judged by its actions. She also clarified that Europe would not financially support “new Islamic structures.” Notably, she addressed the new regime’s relations with Russia, which will affect its relations with Germany, stating “It’s time for Russia to leave.” Additionally, she stressed the need to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity, without explicitly naming Turkey or Israel (a member of her delegation noted that discussions on the matter are ongoing with both countries).
The importance of the visit must also be seen in the context of the Syrian refugee issue, as millions have sought asylum in EU countries since the outbreak of the civil war. Their presence has contributed to the rise of populist right-wing movements. In Germany, where elections are scheduled for February, the issue of asylum seekers and ways of addressing it remain a key political topic that will influence the election results.
Even before the situation in Syria fully stabilizes, a public debate has begun regarding the return of refugees who have failed to integrate into the labor market. This explains the German and European interest in stabilizing Syria and their willingness to assist. However, domestic pressure may lead to a softening of the EU’s conditions for providing aid.
It’s important to remember that European countries have leverage—including the lifting of sanctions, economic and financial aid for reconstruction, diplomatic relations, and granting legitimacy to the new regime—to advance their interests. For Israel, strengthening Western influence in Syria should be a strategic priority.