German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock speaks at a press conference in Damascus, Syria, on Jan. 3, 2025. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua)
DAMASCUS, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and her French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot arrived in Damascus on Friday for high-level talks with Syria's interim administration, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa.
This marks one of the most significant Western diplomatic visits since the downfall of the previous government.
In remarks reported by local media outlets such as al-Watan Online and Syria TV, Baerbock said the EU sees potential for "a new political relationship with Syria," emphasizing that Syrians now have "an opportunity to reclaim their country's destiny after the painful Assad era."
She added that Germany wanted to back the new administration in achieving "a comprehensive and peaceful transition of power" and aid with reconstruction.
Barrot, for his part, underscored a commitment to bolstering Syria's path to stability.
"We aim to enhance a peaceful transition that benefits both the Syrian people and regional security," said the French minister.
The two officials are set to meet with al-Sharaa, the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham.
Since Dec. 8, several Arab and Western diplomatic delegations, including Americans, have visited Syria and met with the new authorities. ■
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (C) speaks at a press conference in Damascus, Syria, on Jan. 3, 2025. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua)
