German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced a new security partnership with Syria during a joint press conference with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Damascus. The partnership includes the co-founding of the Syrian-German Business Council, with Wadephul inviting al-Shaibani to visit Germany.
Wadephul emphasized that Germany has never supported President Bashar al-Assad"s regime, but has provided €13 million in humanitarian aid to Syria. He stated that Syria has the potential to take a leading role in regional counter-terrorism efforts, curbing Iranian influence, and combating drug trafficking.
In addition to the security partnership, Germany pledged an additional €52.6 million in aid aimed at reconstruction and stability in Syria following the Assad era.
For related coverage, see recent developments in political unrest in other regions.
