Damascus-SANA
German Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, said on Thursday that a safe and stable Syria is a strategic objective for Germany and Europe, and it has the potential to become a key player in the region as a whole.
“Germany supports Syria’s unity, stability and sovereignty, and we are committed to enhance our relations with the country,” the German Foreign Minister added in a press statement in Damascus.
“It is our duty to contribute to Syria’s reconstruction, and we have confidence in the country’s new approach,” Wadephul said.
He added that his country backs the lifting of economic sanctions imposed on Syria, encourage German companies to invest in the country and it will continue providing assistance to humanitarian and medical organizations.
“Nearly one million Syrians have sought refuge in Germany, and today I am in Damascus to strengthen bilateral relations and, once again, express our support for Syria in achieving a safe and secure future,” he added.
The German official affirmed that he was deeply affected by the extent of destruction he witnessed around Damascus.
He went on to say that the destroyed neighborhoods require essential infrastructure, including electricity, sewage systems, and clean water.
The German Minister emphasized that, at the European level, it is possible to work on support projects specifically tailored for Syria, considering it an important and strategic partner.
“That reminds us of the devastation Germany faced after World War II, and it is our responsibility to contribute to Syria’s reconstruction,” Wadephul added.
The German Foreign Minister stated that German investors would be willing to invest in Syria if a suitable environment was available.
He noted that he discussed with his Syrian counterpart, Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani, the need for a secure legal framework and an effective banking system, in addition to achieving political stability, which would enable enhanced economic cooperation between the two countries.
Fedaa/ Mazen
