Syria and Germany restore bilateral partnership, says president

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa announced Monday that Syria and Germany have formally re-established their bilateral partnership, speaking alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at a joint press conference in Berlin. The announcement marks a significant diplomatic step as Damascus seeks to rebuild international ties.

Gratitude for hosting Syrian refugees

“On behalf of myself and the Syrian people, I express my deepest gratitude to Germany, its leadership and its people,” al-Sharaa said. “We will never forget how you opened your doors to a million Syrians when all other avenues were closed. You gave our children the opportunity to learn, work, and rebuild their lives.” The Syrian leader’s remarks underscored Berlin’s role in hosting a large Syrian diaspora community over the past decade.

Warnings on regional escalation

During the same appearance, al-Sharaa cautioned that ongoing military confrontations in the region pose serious threats to global energy supplies and pricing, while also raising the risk of further expansion. He condemned what he described as violations against Arab nations, stating: “We condemn any infringement on the security and sovereignty of our brotherly Arab states.” The Syrian president also denounced Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, the breach of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, and what he called the occupation of new lands.