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Faeser and Karner Conclude High-Stakes Talks in Damascus on Refugee Repatriation

The unannounced visit marks Faeser's final days as German interior minister, focusing on voluntary returns and deportation of security threats.

Image
Nancy Faeser (SPD). Die geschäftsführende Innenministerin musste eine Reise nach Syrien nach Hinweisen auf eine "terroristische Bedrohung" abbrechen.
Gerhard Karner, Nancy Faeser und Anas Chattab (v.l.n.r.) während eines Treffens im syrischen Innenministerium

Overview

  • German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and Austrian counterpart Gerhard Karner met with Syrian officials in Damascus to discuss refugee repatriation and deportation frameworks.
  • The visit, conducted under strict security, was rescheduled after a March attempt was aborted due to terror threats.
  • Discussions with Syrian Interior Minister Anas Chattab centered on voluntary returns, deportation of criminals and extremists, and Syria's precarious security and humanitarian situation.
  • Germany has paused asylum decisions for Syrians since December 2024, with over 52,000 cases pending and 1,080 individuals identified for deportation.
  • This visit is likely Faeser's last as interior minister, as coalition negotiations prepare for a CSU-led successor to take over the ministry.