German Chancellor Merz Seeks Talks with Syrian President
(MENAFN) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has extended an invitation to Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa to visit Berlin for discussions on bilateral ties and migration policies.
On Monday evening, Merz told reporters he aims to address Syria's political transition, economic recovery, and the repatriation of Syrian refugees.
“The civil war in Syria is over, and the country now needs all its resources – above all the Syrian people – to rebuild the country,” the conservative leader said, noting that Syrian refugees are expected to start returning home.
"Many Syrians in Germany will certainly return to Syria of their own accord. We know a large proportion want to go back. We will encourage this and help the country rebuild quickly," he added.
When questioned about deporting Syrians involved in criminal activity or those without legal residence, Merz indicated his administration will adopt a firm stance.
“The civil war in Syria is over. There are no longer any grounds for asylum in Germany, and therefore we can begin repatriations,” he emphasized.
“However, I am counting on a large proportion of the refugees who are in Germany now returning to the country of their own accord and participating in the reconstruction,” Merz said.
He continued, “Without these people, reconstruction is not possible. Those in Germany who refuse to return to the country can of course be expelled in the near future.”
Germany currently hosts more than 700,000 Syrian refugees. The total population of people with Syrian backgrounds—including permanent residents and dual citizens—reaches nearly 1.3 million, according to official statistics.
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