Adis Ahmetovic, the foreign‑policy spokesman of the SPD’s parliamentary group, set clear expectations ahead of Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s meeting with Syrian interim president Ahmed al‑Sharaa in Berlin next Monday. He told the German editorial network that the visit should help forge a dependable new chapter in German‑Syrian relations, more than a year after the fall of the Assad regime.
Ahmetovic stressed that Germany wants a political transition in Syria grounded in the rule of law and stability. A key point is that a credible political process must involve all segments of society, including minority groups. Given recent violence against Druze, Alawites, and Kurds, he said it is essential to make clear that such incidents must never recur. Protecting minorities must remain central, and an inclusive process is required. Germany can play a vital role as a partner for civil society and reconstruction.
The chancellor should state that Germany has a strong interest in a stable Syria, but any deepening of ties must be linked to conditions: the establishment of the rule of law, protection of minorities, and a peaceful, prudent foreign policy. According to Ahmetovic, Berlin should support Syria’s position to stay largely out of the current Middle‑East war. Merz should also emphasize that rebuilding and the return of refugees are closely linked from Germany’s perspective. In a country devastated and lacking prospects, people cannot return. For this reason, Germany has a keen interest in rapid reconstruction and is ready to offer its support.