Overview
- Speaking at the SZ Economic Summit on November 19, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said large-scale returns to Syria are currently only very limited, citing a devastated Damascus without reliable electricity or water.
- His stance drew fresh pushback inside the CDU/CSU after Chancellor Friedrich Merz previously claimed there were no reasons for asylum for Syrians in Germany.
- Wadephul stressed that criminal offenders and individuals deemed security risks must be returned, noting he raised this with Syrian leader Ahmed al‑Sharaa.
- He pointed to successful integration of many Syrians in Germany and urged a different public discussion, even as he argued that long‑term taxpayer support should not continue for those who have not integrated.
- Separately, he said his aborted inaugural trip to China will be rescheduled and described Beijing as both partner and competitor, adding that he coordinated closely with Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil.