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Faeser and Karner Secure Syrian Cooperation on Deportations in Damascus Visit

German and Austrian interior ministers discuss refugee returns, expedited deportations, and security with Syria's transitional government.

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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

  • Nancy Faeser and Gerhard Karner completed an unannounced visit to Damascus, meeting Syrian Interior Minister Anas Chattab to address migration and security issues.
  • The Syrian government agreed to issue necessary documentation to facilitate the deportation of Syrian criminals and Islamist fighters from Germany and Austria.
  • Discussions included voluntary return frameworks for refugees, with Faeser emphasizing the importance of supporting those who wish to rebuild their lives in Syria.
  • Germany continues to suspend asylum decisions for Syrians, with over 52,000 cases pending, while exploring pilot programs for exploratory return visits without loss of protection status.
  • The visit follows the December 2024 overthrow of Bashar al-Assad by an HTS-led coalition, marking a significant shift in Syria's political landscape and international relations.