Damascus , Apr. 1 (SANA) Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani affirmed that President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s historic visit to Germany and the United Kingdom marks a new phase in Syrian–European relations.
Al-Shaibani said, in a post on X: “We concluded yesterday a strategic and fruitful diplomatic tour led by His Excellency President Ahmad al-Sharaa to Berlin and London,” stressing that the visit lays the foundation for a renewed relationship built on mutual respect and shared interests, “a transition from isolation to opening the doors of the future.”
The minister added that the tour reinforces international recognition of “the new Syria—a state of institutions and law.” He noted that relations with Europe have shifted from “crisis management” to building genuine “strategic partnerships,” a path that will inevitably benefit the Syrian people and the country’s future.
Al-Shaibani explained that this political shift was clearly reflected in the high-level meetings, beginning with in-depth talks with the German President and Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin, and culminating in an exceptional meeting with King Charles III and the Prime Minister in London. He stressed that Damascus is now proving itself as a reliable political partner.
He added that economic recovery and reconstruction were placed at the top of the agenda, with transparent discussions on activating European investments and contributing to infrastructure rehabilitation, based on stability and sustainable growth.
“We participated in the German–Syrian Business Forum in Berlin, which concluded with the signing of vital memoranda of understanding in the energy and transport sectors. In London, we discussed opportunities for British investment in our infrastructure. Lifting sanctions was the beginning; today we are seeing the results,” he said.
Politically, the minister noted that the tour comes at a highly sensitive regional moment, during which Syria reaffirmed to German and British leaderships its consistent position: Syria is a stabilizing actor, not a party to conflicts, and remains institutionally committed to counterterrorism and combating narcotics and organized crime, while stressing the importance of avoiding escalation.
He added that the issue of Syrians abroad was central to the talks, stressing that Damascus opposes forced returns and aims to create conditions for voluntary repatriation.
Al-Shaibani added that direct meetings with the Syrian community in Europe were among the most sincere and meaningful moments of the tour. “We listened attentively and deeply appreciate their warm reception. Your presence is a message to the world that Syrians are one people, united despite distances, and that building Syria’s future is a national project.”
“Our permanent compass is the Syrian national interest. Our project is to reunite Syrians, heal wounds, and build a state of law and institutions worthy of their sacrifices. Returning to the international arena is a means to serve our people and protect their resources. We will continue working to keep Damascus’ flag raised in all forums,” he concluded.
MHD
