DAMASCUS: During a visit to Damascus on Friday, French and German foreign ministers, Jean-Noel Barrot and Annalena Baerbock, called for a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria while meeting with the newly appointed leader, Ahmed Al Sharaa. Their visit marked the highest-level diplomatic engagement from Western nations since Islamist forces took control of Syria, ousting Bashar Al Assad last month.
Baerbock emphasized that the European Union was prepared to support Syria’s transition but made it clear that the EU would not fund any Islamist-led structures. She reiterated the EU’s commitment to ensuring security, noting that this stance was shared by Syrians both in Germany and the region. Baerbock also underscored the need for a peaceful transfer of power, reconciliation, and reconstruction, which should involve a broad political dialogue with representation from all ethnic and religious groups, as well as equal participation of women.
In the context of ongoing tensions, the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al Sham, which has ties to Al Qaeda, has attempted to reassure minority groups of their safety. However, protests have erupted, including in Christian areas of Damascus, following incidents such as the burning of a Christmas tree in Hama.
Barrot, who also met with Christian leaders, reaffirmed France’s commitment to a pluralistic Syria that ensures equal rights for all groups, particularly minorities. Following discussions with members of Syria’s civil society, Barrot advocated for a “political solution” that includes the Kurdish forces in northeastern Syria. He stressed the importance of integrating the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syria’s political future.
The SDF, a key partner of Western forces in the fight against the Islamic State, has faced renewed attacks from Turkey-backed factions in northern Syria. The latest clashes, particularly around the northern town of Manbij, have resulted in significant casualties. Despite efforts by US-led forces to broker a ceasefire, violence continues to plague the region.
Baerbock also urged neighboring countries to respect Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, emphasizing that the security of the Kurds was essential for the peace process. She called for an end to the fighting in the north and for the inclusion of Kurdish forces in Syria’s security framework.
In talks with Mazloum Abdi, the leader of the SDF, Barrot discussed the ongoing transition in Syria, signaling continued support for the Kurdish forces amidst mounting challenges from Turkish-backed factions. Since 2016, Turkey has launched multiple military operations against the SDF, capturing several Kurdish-controlled towns in recent months.
