During a visit to Berlin, Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani described the Syrian diaspora as a 'strategic national asset.' Damascus signals economic opening to Germany but rejects forced returns. Syria offers cooperation in fighting terrorism and crime.
Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani used his stay in Berlin to state clear positions. 'Syrians in the diaspora are a strategic national asset, not a burden,' he said.
Damascus presents itself as a stability factor and calls for an end to international isolation. At a German-Syrian economic forum, letters of intent were signed announcing closer cooperation.
At the same time, Syria rejects forced returns. Returns must be voluntary and linked to reconstruction and stable living conditions. Syria also offers cooperation in combating terrorism, drug trafficking, and organized crime.
Around 1.3 million Syrians live in Germany, sparking debates on costs and integration.
